I’m Kat Wells, a disabled person who uses Direct Payments (DP) to employ Personal Assistants (PAs). Last month my DP PA model was put on hold after an issue with one PA. Without consulting me, the council imposed an agency that ignored my latex allergy and even tried to remove my husband and primary carer, Mark, from hands-on care. I have mental capacity and make my own decisions. I haven’t been out for weeks and my independence has been stripped away.

This isn’t just about me. Blanket pauses and agency-only substitutions can trap other disabled people at home, create new risks, and erase hard-won freedom.

What I’m Asking For
Reinstate my Direct Payments PA model immediately, pending any safeguarding outcome.
Record and enforce a latex-free reasonable adjustment (no latex products in my home).
No changes to manual handling or personal care without a joint OT review and my consent.
Keep Mark in scope for personal care as per my wishes (least-restrictive approach).
Name the decision-maker, legal basis, and review date for any change to my support.
Allow non-agency cover (trusted friends/known PAs) as a lawful interim option.
Enable fair PA pay/uplift so recruitment and retention are actually possible.
Why This Matters
Direct Payments exist to maximise choice, control, and independent living. Replacing a working PA model with agency care—especially without consultation or adjustments—creates health risks, destabilises support, and isolates people from everyday life. Respecting capacity, recording adjustments (like latex-free), and working with family/primary carers protects dignity and safety.

What Success Looks Like
Written confirmation that my PA model is reinstated pending outcome
Latex-free adjustment recorded and communicated to all staff
Joint OT review booked; no handling/personal-care changes without my consent
Mark retained in personal care per my plan
Non-agency interim cover approved; route for PA rate uplift identified
Clear complaint/reference details and timelines published
Glossary (plain English)
Direct Payments (DP): Council funds I use to hire Personal Assistants (PAs) I choose.
Manual handling: The safe way I’m moved/assisted; changes must be clinically agreed and consented.
Reasonable adjustment: A legal change to practice (e.g., latex-free) so support is safe and accessible.