Living with a disability doesn't mean sacrificing your independence or quality of life. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is designed to support your autonomy and provide freedom to live life on your terms. By understanding the NDIS and its benefits, you can unlock your full potential and enjoy a fulfilling life.
In this resource, we'll look at the many ways the NDIS promotes independent living, while offering practical tips and strategies to help you maximise your NDIS support.
What is the NDIS?
The NDIS is a federally funded initiative in Australia designed to provide support and care services to individuals with permanent and significant disabilities. The primary objectives of the NDIS are to empower participants to live an independent life, pursue their personal goals, and actively participate in their communities.
The NDIS works through a participant-centred approach, where individuals work with a planner to develop a personalised support plan that outlines their goals, aspirations, and support needs. The plan is then used to determine the funding required to support the individual's needs.
Understanding (Supported) Independent Living
Independent living is about having the freedom and control to live life on your own terms. It's about participating fully in your community, engaging in social activities, and pursuing your personal goals. The NDIS Supported Independent Living (SIL) program recognises this and provides personalised assistance with daily tasks, such as personal care, meal preparation, household chores, and social activities.
The level of support varies depending on individual needs, ranging from a few hours per week to 24/7 assistance.
Before the NDIS, many people with disabilities faced significant barriers to achieving independent living. The NDIS addresses these challenges by providing funding for reasonable and necessary supports, including core supports, capacity building, and capital assistance. This support allows individuals to maintain their independence and focus on what matters most to them.
How does the NDIS work?
The NDIS provides funding for reasonable and necessary supports that help you achieve your goals and live independently. As mentioned above, this funding is tailored to your individual needs and goals, and is managed through a personalised NDIS plan.
The NDIS provides funding for a range of supports and services, including:
Personal care and support: Assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
Therapy and interventions: Services such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.
Equipment and assistive technology: Funding for equipment and technology that can assist with daily living, mobility, and communication.
Home modifications: Modifications to the individual's home to improve accessibility and safety.
Transport and vehicle modifications: Funding for transport costs and vehicle modifications to support mobility and independence.
How to Access the NDIS
To determine your eligibility for the NDIS, the following criteria must be met:
You must be under 65 years old
You must be an Australian citizen or resident
You must have a permanent and significant disability that affects daily life and participation in everyday activities
If these criteria are met, follow these steps to access the NDIS:
1. Request an Access Request Form: Contact the NDIS to request an Access Request Form, which will initiate the application process.
2. Application approval: Once the application is approved, you will be connected with either a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or an NDIS Planner.
3. Developing your first plan: Collaborate with the assigned LAC or NDIS Planner to develop your first NDIS plan. This personalised plan outlines your specific goals, necessary supports, and allocated funding.
Maximise Your NDIS Benefits
Maximising your NDIS benefits requires a strategic approach to ensure you receive the support you need to live independently.
Here are five key steps to help you make the most of your NDIS benefits:
Find the Perfect NDIS Match
Select a service provider that offers a wide range of disability support services, has a good reputation, and takes a personalised approach to support. Ensure they are well-versed in your needs and goals.
Secure Suitable Accommodation
Accessing suitable accommodation with accessibility features and on-site support services can play a crucial role in enhancing your independence.
Build Foundations for Independent Living
Focus on building essential life skills, such as meal preparation, cleaning, budgeting, and using public transport. Collaborate with your provider to establish a systematic skill development plan.
Community Engagement
Active participation in community activities, such as social events, volunteering, or recreational activities, can help individuals with disabilities to build social connections, improve mental wellbeing, and enhance life and social skills.
Stay on Track with Regular Reviews
Ensure your support plan is flexible and responsive to changes in your situation. Regularly review and adjust your plan with your NDIS provider to ensure you receive the right level of support to aid your journey towards independence.
Empowered Independent Living
The NDIS is a powerful tool for empowering independent living. By providing financial support, facilitating access to services, and promoting choice and control, the NDIS enables you to live life on your own terms in a supportive environment.
If you're eligible for the NDIS and have been approved for SIL, or are interested in learning more, our team at Sunnysights is here to support you.
Contact us today for more information about how we can help you:
Phone: (07) 3088 7935
Email: support@sunnysights.com.au
Commenti