Personalised support is often called 'self-directed support', as it is support which is directed, or managed, by the individual rather than by the Council, a family member or anyone else. Self-directed support is essential for independent living, as it enables disabled people to control their own lives and make the kinds of choices that non-disabled people take for granted.

Both personal budgets and direct payments are methods of self-directed support which enable the individual to decide how their support needs will be met.

A direct payment is a cash payment for social care from the local authority instead of services.

A personal budget can be a cash payment, or arranged services, or a combination of both. Therefore all, or part, of a personal budget can be received as a direct payment.