SCIE,UK
Reviews research in Scotland based on the experiences of twelve people with dementia who used direct payments. Carers and representatives of ten local authorities were interviewed, and freedom of information (FOI) requests were made to all local authorities in Scotland. Findings were that, although local authorities promoted direct payments, uptake by people with dementia and their carers was low. Direct payment rates varied widely across councils. Recommendations include improved publicity to increase awareness, reduced bureaucracy and ensuring parity across different local authorities.