A2W = Access to Work.

A government scheme that provides funding to help disabled people to work. E.g. equipment, personal assistance, travel costs.

DPs = Direct Payments.

Funds from Social Services given to individuals to purchase their own personal assistance / care.

ILF = Independent Living Fund

A government fund that pays cash to individuals to purchase personal assistance. Tops up DPs.

IB = Individual Budget

A collection of funds, gathered from a range of sources (DPs, ILF, A2W, private income, benefits etc). This single budget is then used by a person (directly as cash or through a broker) to purchase support, assistance and equipment needed to live independently.

PA = Personal Assistant.


Someone employed by a disabled person to provide physical and or emotional support.
Usually paid for privately or through the above funds.