You should be aware of what will change during this period:
- If you are already receiving Direct payments (or in the future Individual budgets) for your son or daughter, they will be able to receive these in their own right and be able direct their own care.
- If they are unable to undertake the responsibility of managing the payment you could become their '3rd party' and manage the fund on their behalf. (The hourly rate will change at 18, the figure for adult services being lower than the children's rate).
- If your son or daughter is in receipt of a care package your needs as carer can now be assessed.