Since the introduction of self-directed support, we are at the forefront of making this available to all. One of the elements to self-directed support is brokerage. This can be done by the person receiving the support or by someone on their behalf. Over the past year we have invested time into training four of our staff to offer the brokerage role to people and families.
What is Brokerage?
“Support Brokerage involves the assistance that people need to work out what their choices will be, and the support required to make it happen.”
Who are Support Brokers?
Support Brokers can include the following:
- Support providers
- Individuals & Families
- Care Managers
- Independent Brokers
Functions of Brokerage
Support Brokerage that we offer:
- Support to complete an individual assessment and receive an indicative resource allocation.
- Design a plan (a person centered plan) that represents the person and their chosen lifestyle which clearly identifies areas where support may be required.
- Develop a support plan, exploring how the person wants to design their support and setting out how their funding will be used.
- Explore other potential funding and benefits – complete the necessary claim forms.
- Arrange and/or co-ordinate any housing options.
- Explore the potential within local community resources and assist in making connections.
- Co-ordinate the support i.e. employing supporters, rotas, payroll…
- Negotiate how the funding will be used with other providers.
- Help the person engage and work with the local council.
- Complete monitoring systems that are in line with any decision-making agreements.
- Plan how the budget will be used.
- Help to maintain records.
- Assist with quality assurance processes that an individual wishes to use or a funder requires.
- Understanding community based resources.
- Monitor and review
If you would like any further information or would like to speak to Options about Support Brokerage then please do contact us.
