Just the card

Service users take charge of their payments

Edinburgh Card

With the introduction of a pre-loaded purchase card for those receiving direct payments, Edinburgh is leading the way by being the first council in Scotland to enable service users to use the card to choose and pay for their care needs.

Kenny Turnbull, 60, has enjoyed the advantages of the Edinburgh Card, having been one of those who piloted the system about a year ago.

After ironing out the teething problems with the new system, he finds it a streamlined process which does away with burdensome paperwork – a particularly difficult task when you can no longer write.

Living in his own flat for more than 17 years, he enjoys the support of seven carers, a mixture of agency and full-time staff that he has employed himself. And the Edinburgh Card allows him to manage their payments with ease.

With the new card, all care funds from a number of sources, including the Council, Independent Living Fund and NHS, are together in one place. Kenny’s carers can step in by simply lifting the phone and helping him pay the bills in minutes.

“Direct payments are an ideal way for people to manage their needs, or those they care for, and the Edinburgh Card gives complete control of your services,” said Kenny.

“I have control over how my care is provided and can make things happen without fuss and delay.

“There is freedom to have who I want to deliver what is often very personal care. It’s important I can employ the people I want to provide my care.”

There are currently around 450 people receiving Direct Payments in Edinburgh and this is likely to rise.

All new recipients will receive payments using the Edinburgh Card, which is provided in conjunction with the Royal Bank of Scotland.

GOOD TO KNOW:

If you currently receive Direct Payments but don’t have an Edinburgh Card, contact the

Funding Independence Team on 0131 652 3229.

If you want more information on Direct Payments, contact Social Care Direct on 0131 200 2327.