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The Kent Card is an innovative new payment method from
KCC, which enables service  users to have greater control over their own
lives and make their own lifestyle choices.
Following a social services assessment, service users will be
offered cash, known as a Direct Payment, as an alternative to
having services provided for them. This allows them to determine
for themselves when they get assistance, how and from whom.
It gives users increased flexibility when they need support at
shortnotice - they can call several agencies and get the help they
need. If they are not satisfied with an agency they can arrange an
alternative independently of Kent Adult Social Services.
KCC has introduced the Kent Card to enable payments to be made
directly to individuals without the need for a bank account or
complicated record keeping.
KCC load the card regularly with the amount agreed to meet the
service user's need. The service user's assessed contribution or
any money they may wish to use to pay for help and support can also
be loaded onto the card.
Set-up of the card is easier than Direct Payments, as there is
no need for new accounts to be opened and paperwork is minimal.
Once ongoing, auditing of expenditure is much less complicated than
with Direct Payments.
There are currently 60 people using the Kent Card.
KCC recognise that a dedicated resource is needed to help
achieve the target figure of 400 by end of March 2008. Four project
officers have therefore been recruited to work with providers, KCC
officers and Direct Payment users over a six month period to
increase uptake. As with any new product buy in from staff and
users is slow, it takes time for people to embrace a new initiative
and see the real benefits a product can
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