Disability Rights UK has carried out two freedom of information requests (FOI) asking English local authorities (LAs) how they would manage the transition for people formerly in receipt of the Independent Living Fund
Disability Rights UK opposes closure of the Independent Living Fund (ILF) unless and until an effective alternative approach is in place that really enables independent living of people with high support needs. In our view, all disability policy changes should be judged against the acid test of whether they enable independent living in practice.
FOI's about ILF transfers
Disability Rights UK sent FOI's to find out what local authorities would be doing about ILF transfers in England. Scotland, Wales and Northerm Ireland are introducing replacement ILF schemes.
The first FOI's were sent to all local authorities in England with social care responsibilities over 3rd – 5th June 2014. Two questions were asked. You can view a summary of findings here
The timing of this FOI was to gauge the intentions of local authorities prior to guidance being issued. We then sent a second series of FOIs once LA guidance was available where four questions were asked. You can view a summary of findings here
What is happening in your area?
To find out what is happening in your area please see the accompanying 3 tables.
Table 1 - FOI reference number, ringfencing, how many users.
Table 2 - No's with pc transfer review, no's not seen, named individual.
Table 3 - Named organisation, involvement, monitoring.
How DR UK can help
If you have any queries regarding the ILF transfer please contact our self-directed support helpline on 0330 995 0404 or email selfdirectedsupport@disabilityrightsuk.org