Emily, 70, is a retired teacher and mother of 2 adult children. One of her children, Liam, 38, has severe epilepsy and Autism.

He sometimes displays behaviour that is challenging and is starting to have more bad days, than good. Emily took over his care and support when she retired 5 years ago, but is finding it difficult now that she is getting older and Liam is having more frequent epileptic seizures. Liam received direct payments in the past and had Personal Assistants, and they are both wondering if this might be the best way forward now that Emily can’t be his full-time carer. Emily has reached out to Liam’s social worker to discuss their options for the future.

1. What advice would you give Emily? Would direct payments and self-commissioned services be a good option, or are there other options to consider?
2. How would you ensure you were including Liam in the decisions that will affect him, and enabling him to make choices and have control over the future of his care and support?

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