I have been trying for some time now to get adequate Direct Payments to help with mum's care. Initially the amount offered was nowhere near enough to enable me to get evening and lunch help which is what I wanted (we already have morning carer). It paid to persevere, good news today, got what I asked for plus respite for 6 weeks a year on Direct Payment too so I can choose a home or maybe get someone to live in with mum for respite. Thought some of you might like to know about this, although I guess not all areas will be the same.