A roundtable on self-directed support (SDS) was convened in June 2008 by the Scottish Government to consider a strategy to increase the uptake of self-directed support and a reference group was set up to develop this.
A key part of the strategy is the running of test sites in three local authorities over 2 years to consider how well specific interventions improve uptake. The test sites are covering the themes of cutting red tape, investing to save (bridging finance) and leadership and training. Dumfries and Galloway, Glasgow and Highland Councils have been selected as the three test sites. NHS Lothian and Borders Council will also be contributing to the development of the policy through a project aimed at ensuring the use of health board monies in SDS packages. This work builds on the research conducted in June 2008 which demonstrated the flexibility, choice, control and independence that self-directed support is able to offer individuals. The Scottish Government will also be funding a number of other projects to consider how to increase the quality and provision of SDS across Scotland.