Support Coordination can help you to get the most out of your NDIS plan. The following article explores some helpful things to consider when choosing the right Support Coordinator for you.
What is Support Coordination?
Support Coordination is a specific part of an NDIS plan that helps you to get the most out of your NDIS funds so that you can achieve your goals. A Support Coordinator can help to improve your understanding of the NDIS and build capacity to give you skills, choice and control so that you can gain independence.
Are you eligible for support coordination?
Currently, the NDIS has introduced a temporary measure that allows you to access Support Coordination using your plan’s Core Budget during COVID-19.
- If Support Coordination IS already included in your NDIS plan, you are now able to use your Core budget to access additional hours of the service when your Capacity Building funds run out.
- If Support Coordination IS NOT already included in your NDIS plan, you will now be able to use your Core budget to access the service.
What will your support coordinator do?
Your support Coordinator will:
Work with you to understand & implement your NDIS plan funding
Your Support Coordinator knows a lot about the NDIS price guide and support catalogue. They can use this knowledge and suggest ways you can use the funds to ensure that you get the most out of your plan.
Help you to navigate the NDIS participant portal to build capacity and confidence
Where possible, Support Coordination is designed to be a temporary support. Your Support Coordinator will help you to build skills so that you can eventually manage your own plan and coordinate your own supports. This ultimately gives you more choice and control over your plan and your life.
Help connect you to quality mainstream services based on your goals
Once the Support Coordinator has an understanding of your goals, they will connect you with local providers including community groups and activities, therapists, employers or SIL providers based on your individual goals.
Negotiate with your providers and organise Service Agreements
After connecting you with your service provider, your Support Coordinator will organise a Service Agreement that will outline the role and responsibilities of your supports. If at any stage you are not happy with the service provided by your supports you can contact your Support Coordinator. They will then work with the service provider to discuss the relationship or find a new service provider for you.
Help you prepare for plan reviews & gather reports from providers
Your Support Coordinator will help you to prepare for your yearly plan review. They can also help you if there has been a change of circumstances which affects your goals and funding support.
They will request reports and quotes for any assistive technology you may require and document your achievements and any barriers that may have occurred.
Your Support Coordinator can attend your review meeting with you via, phone or in person.
What should you look for when choosing a support coordinator?
Choosing a Support Coordinator is an important decision. You should take the time to find a Support Coordinator who has the skills and knowledge to support you to achieve your goals. Here are some important things to think about when deciding on the right provider for you:
Choice – Your Support Coordinator should help you to develop the skills, choice and control to manage your physical and mental wellbeing and live independently
Expertise – Does your Support Coordinator have experience with your disability or have they been providing disability service for long time and are aware of local services to meet your needs.
Personalised Support – It is important for your Support Coordinator to provide one-on-one support to you and your network of supports. Your Support Coordinator should understand that no two people are the same and should work with you to achieve your unique goals.
Connection – Your Support Coordinator should have a good relationship with a wide range of local service providers so that you can get the most out of your plan
Communication – Your Support Coordinator should be in regular contact with you and your support team to make sure you are happy with your service providers and achieving your goals.
For more information about Support Coordination or to find out how we can help you, contact our Friendly NDIS team.
Call 4925 2259 or email NDIS@hunterprimarycare.com.au