NDIS - The Right Support Makes all the difference!
Connect and Grow Magazine - Edition 2 October 2023 - NDIS Providers and Participants
October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month.
I grew up with a family friend who had Down syndrome. she is no longer with us, but she had the biggest heart and smile. When she was alive she had a part-time job, a boyfriend and other friends. Her parents supported her to be the individual she became. If she were alive today, she would be in her late 40's.
If you are a person with an NDIS plan or someone with a family member who has an NDIS plan, always know that you have choice and control.
At the end of the day, it is YOUR life, and it is essential that you feel it is okay to say no to someone if something is not suitable for you.
Your NDIS plan is for you to use the funding for support you need; if you only require 1 hour of support on some days, it is okay to speak up and say that. Companies do have to pay their staff a minimum of 2 hours, so I understand it can be a challenge to find the right team; however, remember that the funding is provided for you to access the community and have support, and that also includes Allied health support and assessments as required.
Choice and Control
This is where you can choose your providers and the hours and days of care you require, working within your NDIS plan budget.
You can ask for changes in the service agreement offered to you to ensure that it reflects you before you sign it.
Sole traders and companies will have specific criteria for running their business and business compliance, so there may be some discussion. However, it is essential for you to speak up for yourself. If you cannot, you may have a support coordinator or advocate do that for you.
Support coordinators and local area coordinators have the role of helping you to understand your choices and service providers; you can ask them for assistance with the referrals to the providers you choose.
Remember, this is YOUR life and your NDIS plan.
Written by Jacqui Grant
In the September edition, we share Julie Fisher's book about her son Darcy, who has Down Syndrome; you can read that article here.
You may like to listen to our Connect and Grow Podcast episode: Role of the Support worker in NDIS.
Subscribe to Connect and Grow Magazine Today
(C) 2023 Break Free Consultancy
Disclaimer: All information provided is for general use only; it is correct and accurate at the time of publication. Always seek professional advice as required before making any decisions