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On the tube

Central government initiatives such as '˜In Control' are ensuring more and more people with learning disabilities are given the opportunity to access self directed support.

As this initiative gathers pace, HFT aims to develops its knowledge and work within this field and therefore ensure the opportunities this offers, are grasped, not just for the people it supports but also for the future development of HFT and the role it plays in the lives of people with learning disabilities.

Two 'pilot' Brokerage services are currently being started, in Sheffield and Cheshire, where brokers will support people with learning disabilities and their parents/carers in the following ways:

• Listen and work in partnership with the person 
•  Explore new and creative ways to plan and organise the support and life they want
• Provide information, advice and guidance on what is available
• Design and cost support packages
• Negotiate and mediate with other agencies on their behalf
• Provide tailored support packages
• Support people to recruit and manage their own staff

In addition to this HFT's Family and Carer Support service has produced a DVD on Individual Budgets and Self Directed Support titled 'Getting in Control'.  Produced in partnership with 'In Control' and The Federation of Supported Living Groups, and funded by the Big Lottery Fund, this excellent DVD provides advice to families and carers on what is possible when people with learning disabilities are told 'up front' how much money is allocated to them and advises how they can decide how this can be spent in ways that best suits them.  For more information contact robina.mallett@hft.org.uk

It is hoped the Brokerage pilots and the DVD will enable HFT to play a lead role in the development and uptake of Brokerage and Self Directed Support.

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