Hackney: creative use of a personal budget

Thinking outside the box

Gill Jackson has a physical disability brought on by ME. “With a personal budget you’re given money following a needs assessment,” says Gill. “The assessment allows you to think outside the box. It’s now about outcomes, encouraging you to think about what would give you a better standard of life.”

Gill spent time with a care manager from Hackney when filling out the form.

“She asked me what would improve my quality of life,” Gill recalls. “I said: ‘I’d like to go cycling with friends, in Epping Forest and in the countryside like I used to’.” After doing some research, Gill discovered an electric bike shop in Camden.

A bespoke solution

“On the bike I was literally laughing and crying at the same time because I could simply use the motor, not use any energy if I didn’t want to, but also pedal with assistance if I did. “I got my helmet and off I went. It was heaven! In the past I have been left behind as I cannot use a normal bike; this led to depressive moods and made me focus on my impairment. But now I can plan a trip and build up to it. Sometimes I can get pain and fatigue, but believe me it’s worth it for the joy and freedom cycling this way gives me.

“It makes me feel much better. On that bike I’m a cyclist; I don’t feel like I’m disabled. That’s the outcome.”