Making Individual Service Funds Work for People with Dementia Living in Care Homes

Book excerpt: Dispelling the myths about how personalisation works for people with dementia living in care homes, this book demonstrates how to introduce Individual Service Funds (ISFs), what works and what doesn't, and how to deal with difficulties and setbacks. Individual Service Funds are one way that people living with dementia can have a personal budget. The authors explain how they went about introducing the principles of ISFs to people living with dementia in a large care home in Stockport, without using any additional funding. They describe the person-centred practices used and the involvement of the council, commissioners, staff and families. Through clear and detailed stories and examples, they demonstrate the dramatic approach to quality of life for people with dementia the approach can deliver. There is a strong emphasis on managerial and organisational issues, including getting staff 'on board', providing adequate support, budgeting, building effective partnerships and implementing change. Providing helpful insights and examples for good practice, this book is essential reading for all those involved in providing personalised care for people with dementia living in care homes, including care staff, care home managers, local authority commissioners, service providers and policy makers.