This paper examines the impact of direct payments on social isolation. We define what social isolation means, and then evaluate the role of direct payments in the provision of social services in the United Kingdom. Social isolation is a particular problem for older people. In Australia there are an increasing number of older residents who are isolated, but would benefit from having greater choice in terms of how they access and receive social services. Increased access to direct payments could help to reduce waiting lists for traditional social services and address gaps in service provision. © 2010 AHHA.

Item Type:	Refereed Article
Research Division:	Human Society
Research Group:	Sociology
Research Field:	Urban sociology and community studies
Objective Division:	Law, Politics and Community Services
Objective Group:	Community services
Objective Field:	Ageing and older people
UTAS Author:	Donoghue, J (Dr Jed Donoghue)
ID Code:	63123
Year Published:	2010
Web of Science® Times Cited:	1
Deposited By:	Sociology and Social Work
Deposited On:	2010-04-15
Last Modified:	2014-10-07
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