Consumer directed approaches aim to give people more say over how their approved home support is used. In practice, what is available depends on the area and on current HSE arrangements.
Treat this as a question to ask rather than an entitlement to expect. We link to the official source rather than describing local rules we have not verified.
Who it's generally for
People already engaged with HSE home support who want more control over how their support is delivered.
What it provides
- More choice and involvement in how approved home support is organised
- A support plan built around the person's own routine and priorities
The eligibility and assessment caveat
Availability and how this operates can vary by area and over time. Confirm directly with your local HSE office what is currently offered where the person lives before relying on it.
What to do next
- Ask your local HSE Home Support Office whether a consumer directed option is available in that area
- Ask what it would change in practice compared with the standard arrangement
Documents and information worth preparing
- The existing care plan or assessment outcome, if you have it
- A note of the routine that matters most to the person (times of day, preferences)
Questions worth asking
- Is a consumer directed home support option currently available in this area?
- What decisions would we be able to make, and what stays with the HSE?
- Would the approved hours change?
Official sources
We summarise. The organisations below are the authority on current rules, rates and thresholds.
- Health Service Executive (HSE) — HSE — health and social care services
Open the official source - Health Service Executive (HSE) — Home Support Service
Open the official source