Personal budgets
What is a personal budget?
A personal budget is an amount of money allocated by the Council to individuals assessed as needing care and support. It allows individuals to have greater choice and control over how their care needs are met.
Who is eligible?
To qualify for a personal budget, you must:
- be assessed as eligible for care and support under the care act 2014
- be a resident of Lewisham receiving Council-funded care
- complete a financial assessment to determine your contribution towards your care costs
- have an agreed support plan outlining how your needs will be met
The amount allocated depends on your assessed care needs and financial assessment.
Will you need to contribute toward your care?
Most people receiving a personal budget will be asked to contribute towards the cost of their care but how much you pay depends on your financial situation.
Before your financial assessment, you can use our quick tool to get a general idea:
This is just a guide. You’ll need to complete a full financial assessment to confirm your contribution.
How can you receive a personal budget?
You can choose how your personal budget is provided:
- direct payments money is paid directly to you to arrange your own support
- Council-managed budget the Council arranges services on your behalf
- mixed budget a combination of direct payments and Council-arranged care
Financial contributions and 2025/26 rates
If your savings and assets are above £23,250, you must pay the full cost of your care (self-funding). If they're below this threshold, we will determine your contribution based on your eligible income, benefits, capital and savings, expenses, and any assessed disability-related costs.
2025/26 income buffers for financial assessment:
| Age | Disability Benefit | Your Buffer (2025/26 Rate) |
| 18-24 | None | £91.00 |
| 18-24 | Higher rate DLA care | £171.63 |
| 25 to Pension Age | None | £115.06 |
| 25 to Pension Age | Higher rate DLA care | £195.56 |
| Pension Age+ | None | £283.88 |
What can a personal budget be used for?
A personal budget can be used for eligible care and support needs, including:
- personal care help with washing, dressing, and medication
- help at home meal preparation, cleaning, and shopping
- day services community groups, social activities, and education
- respite care short breaks for carers or individuals needing temporary support
- transport to help with independence and access to the community
- equipment and adaptations mobility aids, stairlifts, and home modifications
- support with work or volunteering travel costs or job coaching services
What can't personal budgets be used for?
- paying family members living in the same household (unless an exception is granted)
- general living costs (eg., rent, household bills, food, holidays)
- unregulated services that do not meet safety or quality standards
What happens if your needs change?
If your care needs change, you can request a reassessment. Personal budgets are reviewed at least once a year to ensure they continue to meet your needs.
What if you disagree with your budget allocation?
If you do not agree with your personal budget assessment, you can:
- request a review speak to your social worker or care assessor
- appeal the decision follow the Councils complaints process
- get independent advice contact advocacy organisations
More information
Contact
Direct Payments
Monday–Friday 9am–5pm (4.45pm on Fridays)