ELDERLY and disabled people in South Cheshire will become the first in England to use a special debit card to cover the costs of their social care.

The Empower card is aimed at helping vulnerable adults lead more independent lives by making it easier for them and their families to manage their care budgets.

Money is pre-loaded on to each Visa card and can then be used for everything from hiring a personal care assistant to paying for activities, taking a taxi to go shopping or ordering items off the internet.

Previously the cash would have been paid into a bank account. But if people opt for the new card, all transactions will be logged via a monthly statement and there will be much less paperwork.

The scheme has been unveiled by Cheshire East Council, which provides social care to 6,500 adults. Nearly 1,200 residents already receive a personal care budget.

Councillor Roland Domleo, cabinet member for adult services, said: "The new Empower card will make it much easier for those already on a personal budget, and those about to receive one, to manage their money in the most convenient way.

"Personal budgets have been around for 10 years, but now everyone will be offered one, although they don't have to take up the offer."

Before these budgets, people were assessed for social care and offered a standard list of provision, such as being able to attend a council day centre.

Now social services will work out how much a person should be getting and they can credit their Empower card with that amount on a regular basis. The system will be monitored to ensure the cards are being used effectively.

It has been developed by Cheshire company Boston Marks in partnership with the counci.