The Big Question

Len Smith
Gypsy activist

Like so many proposals, this looks good at first sight, and I
hope will work. I can see flaws though. I believe it could leave
some vulnerable people open to financial abuse by exploitative or
incompetent carers who have no oversight system. Some users may not
be able to manage their money, and lose out.

Karen Shook
Disability equality adviser

Anything that gives disabled people more independence and control
is a step forward. But what must happen is an increase in support
services to help disabled people gain control and confidence in
identifying their needs. Too many direct payments schemes do not
offer support and guidance.

Angie Lawrence
single mother

I feel that consideration of each person’s situation goes a long
way to improving their lot – practically, emotionally and
psychologically. However, if the government is not going to finance
this, I cannot see how it will work. Operating a system which
caters to the individual inevitably costs more.

Robert Johnstone
Disability law expert and service user

I’m on direct payments and I find them totally liberating. It’s
great to be in charge of your own care. But the system needs to be
simplified: one option would be to have self-employed carers who
would sort out their own tax. But this is one government scheme
where everybody wins.