Residents can discover a new way of funding care for loved ones at an open day.

The event on January 30 will give Merton’s families the chance to learn about direct payments - a system whereby instead of receiving council funded care, residents can choose to take the money this would have cost and supply the care themselves.

A council spokesman said: “Residents who use direct payments scheme are able to decide how best their needs are met, choose who comes into their home to help them or what they want to do during the day, and pay for services out of the money allocated to them by the council.

“Council staff from the direct payments and welfare benefits team will be available to answer questions and will be joined by other direct payments users who will be available to share their experiences of the scheme so far.”

The open day will take place between 11am and 3pm at the Hub in Bishopsford Road, Morden.