Self-directed support

This audit report examines councils’ progress in implementing the self-directed support strategy in Scotland and their readiness for the Social Care (Self-directed Support) (Scotland) Act 2013. It focuses on councils because they have the lead role, working in partnership with users, carers, third and private sector providers, NHS boards and other organisations. The audit work was carried out between December 2013 and February 2014. It involved a review of a range of published information, case studies in four councils, and interviews with staff and representatives from range of public, private and third sector organisations. The report highlights that councils still have a substantial amount of work to do to fully implement self-directed support. Some have made slower progress than others and they will have to implement the cultural and practical changes more quickly over the next few years. Councils need effective leadership from senior managers and councillors and continued support from the Scottish Government.