Promoting self‐directed support for people living with dementia: overcoming the challenges

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the use of self‐directed supported as a way of empowering people living with dementia to have greater control over the support they need.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors interviewed social care staff and people living with dementia about their use of self‐directed support.

Findings

There have been a number of challenges with making self‐directed support a reality for people with dementia, including the paperwork that can be involved and the time spent setting up a service. However, West Sussex County Council is working on solutions to make sure that self‐directed support becomes a reality for people living with dementia.

Originality/value

The paper highlights some of the positives and obstacles that staff and people living with dementia have faced regarding the use of self‐directed support within West Sussex and the ways that these issues are being overcome.

Citation

Moore, D. and Jones, K. (2011), "Promoting self‐directed support for people living with dementia: overcoming the challenges", Social Care and Neurodisability, Vol. 2 No. 2, pp. 66-70. https://doi.org/10.1108/20420911111142731