Self Directed Support

We are committed to supporting people to look forward to mental wellbeing with recovery focused support. 

Self directed support (SDS) became law on 1 April 2014 and we believe it gives people more choice, control and the empowerment to live the lives they want to live.

SDS allows people, their carers and their families to make informed choices on what their support looks like and how it is delivered, making it possible to meet agreed personal outcomes.

More information about SDS


SDS What does it all mean (leaflet) 
Individual service funds (leaflet)

Steps to gettings SDS


This section provides information on the steps required to access SDS and the support and information available to you.


  • I need support
    You decide you need support. Or, sometimes, a friend or relative will suggest that you contact social services to ask about support

  • First contact

    You need to contact your local social work services.  If you already use a Penumbra service, we can contact them on your behalf


  • Eligibilty & assessment
    Your local social work service check if you can get support

  • Support planning
    If you pick Penumbra as your provider, we will produce a plan for how you can be supported

  • Agreeing the final plan
    We will agree the final support plan with you, to make sure you are happy and getting all the support you need

  • Support
    We follow the plan and you get the support you need

  • Review
    After a set time there will be a review to check if your needs have changed

How people have used SDS


Craig from Glasgow talks about how he used SDS to access support.

Neill from Falkirk talks about using SDS to be supported back into the community.



Contact your local council about SDS


Use the drop down menu to find contact details for your local council’s self directed support team.

Contact your local authority

Penumbra and SDS


A short overview of an event organised by Penumbra to promote partnership and collaborative working in SDS.

Contact SDS network


To help give you information on SDS relevant to you in your area, we have established an SDS Peer Network. Whether you are looking for information on accessing SDS, or are currently on SDS funding, you can speak with people supported by Penumbra who have had, or currently access, SDS funded support.


Contact the SDS network

Contact Penumbra about SDS

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