From April, people who use flexible funding through DSS will have more choice and control over how they use their funding.
From 1 April:
- People’s allocated budgets for flexible funding will stay the same as they are now. There will be no change.
- The purchasing rules for flexible funding will be removed.
- Flexible funding must still be used in line with people’s plans – but people will have more choice over what supports work for them, including respite options for carers.
- A small number of items will remain prohibited or require pre-approval before spending.
- There will be more support for people to plan and manage their flexible funding in line with their plan. People with Hosts can expect to hear about this support from April onwards.
- People don’t need to do anything to get ready for these changes.
- There is more information on the DSS website: : Flexible funding changes | Disability Support Services
These April changes build on earlier improvements to Disability Support Services, including a nationally consistent assessment approach introduced in February 2026, and reflect feedback from the disability community.
Here are links to more information about the changes, as well as communication resources you may find helpful.
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- DSS website information: Flexible funding changes | Disability Support Services
- Printable factsheet. March/April 2026 Fact sheet | Disability Support Services We have commissioned alt formats for the factsheet and these will be on the DSS website soon.
- MSD Facebook post, in case you wish to share: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16ehoN2Vn5/
- Social media tile: I’ve also attached to this email a copy of our social media tile for your use if helpful.