Individual Service Fund (ISF) & Third Party Budget (TPB)
How Do ISF’s and TPB’s Work in Practice?
At the Independence Project, we believe everyone deserves the right support, in the right way, at the right time. That’s why we work closely with families, local authorities, and individuals to make the most of their Personal Budgets. One of the ways we do this is through Individual Service Funds (Social Care funded) and Third Party Budgets (NHS Funded)
It’s about recognising that people are experts in their own lives – and support should fit around them, not the other way around.
So you have been awarded a personal budget or personal health budget to help support you. Great! This is where we can get to work and support you if you choose the Independence Project to manage your ISF. We can offer ISF management to you if Independence Project also provides some of your care support. We like to work this way because when we provide you direct support through one of our services we have already learned a lot about you and will be in regular contact with you and your family which means we are able to support you in the best way possible.
You decide what your goals are linked to your support plan.
You know how much money is available to support you.
You plan your support your way – with help if needed.
You stay in control, with regular reviews and adjustments.
The great thing about ISF’s and TPB’s is that they are flexible and as long as we meet the outcomes of the support plan that has been set then the choice is yours of how the money is used.
Many people are put off from managing their personal budgets because of all of the added responsibilities that go with it. This is where we can step in to support you to achieve your goals. We have built up extensive networks of support within Essex and have lots of knowledge in this area. We have lots of contacts from local service providers that we can put you in touch with.
How Can It Be Used?
Your Personal Budget can be used for things that help you:
- Stay independent at home
- Join in with community activities
- Get help with daily tasks like cooking or shopping
- Access day opportunities (like the Independence Project!)
- Try new things, build confidence, or get work experience
- Respite away from loved ones
Why Choose an ISF with the Independence Project?
We specialise in creative, person-centred support using ISFs. This means you can:
- Mix and match your week – volunteering, life skills, social time, and more
- Change your plans when your needs change
- Try something new without being tied to set hours or fixed schedules
- Be supported by people who know you well and care about your progress
Real Stories
We’ve helped people use their Personal Budgets to:
- Start volunteering at animal rescue centres
- We have helped people overcome addiction problems
- Therapy sessions
- Gain employment
- Learn how to drive to gain independence
- Learn to travel independently
- Explore music, art, or fitness
- Build routines and confidence after time at home
- Taken people abroad for respite away from loved ones
Have a read of Michael’s story to see how Individual Service Funds transformed his life.
Need Help?
If you’re not sure where to start with Personal Budgets, we’re here to help.
Get in touch with us and we’ll talk you through it step-by-step – from assessments to planning your perfect week.
Contact us today to find out how we can support you or your loved one.