Support Coordination is a key component of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), an Australian government initiative designed to support people with disabilities. It helps NDIS participants navigate the complex world of disability services by providing guidance, advise, and assistance in selecting and coordinating the services and supports that best meet their needs.
Support Coordination in NDIS aims to empower participants to make informed decisions about their supports, build their capacity to manage their own services, and ensure that they receive the most appropriate and effective services to achieve their goals. It is a person-centered approach that focuses on the individual needs and preferences of each participant, promoting their independence and enhancing their quality of life.
This blog from SupportNest, a registered NDIS provider in Victoria, focuses on the importance of having a reliable support coordinator all throughout your life journey.
What is a support coordinator in NDIS?
A support coordinator is a professional who works in the context of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia. Their primary role is to help people with disabilities or their families/carers navigate the complex NDIS system and access the support and services they need to achieve their goals and live their best life.
Specifically, support coordinators work with NDIS participants to develop a comprehensive plan for their individualised support needs. This plan outlines the participant’s goals, the types of support they require, and the specific services and providers that can deliver that support.
The support coordinator’s role is to help participants identify and select the most appropriate providers, coordinate and schedule services, and monitor the quality and effectiveness of the support provided. They also provide ongoing support and advice to the participant and their support network to ensure they remain on track to achieving their goals. They can also assist you to an NDIS hospital discharge if needed.
Overall, the support coordinator’s goal is to empower NDIS participants to live a more independent and fulfilling life by ensuring they have access to the right support and services.
Difference between a regular NDIS support coordinator from a specialist support coordinator?
In the Australian disability sector, both regular NDIS support coordinators and specialist support coordinators play important roles in ensuring that people with disabilities receive the necessary support and services to achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives.
The main difference between the two is the level of expertise and qualifications they possess. A regular NDIS support coordinator is typically a qualified and experienced professional who has completed a training course approved by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) and is registered as an NDIS provider. Their role involves helping participants navigate the NDIS system, identifying their needs, and connecting them with appropriate service providers.
On the other hand, a professional in NDIS specialist support coordination, is a highly qualified and experienced professional who has additional training and expertise in working with people with complex and high-level support needs. They may have a background in areas such as psychology, social work, occupational therapy, or nursing. Their role involves providing more specialised and intensive support to participants with complex needs, including those with multiple disabilities, mental health issues, or behavioral challenges. They may work with participants to develop more detailed plans, coordinate a wider range of services, and advocate for their needs within the NDIS system.
Overall, both regular NDIS support coordinators and specialist support coordinators play important roles in supporting people with disabilities. The main difference is that specialist support coordinators have additional qualifications and expertise to work with participants with more complex needs.
Can you self-manage your NDIS funding?
Yes, it is possible for NDIS participants to self-manage their funding. Self-management allows participants to have more control and flexibility over the supports and services they receive. This means that the participant can choose their own service providers, negotiate service agreements, and manage the funds allocated to them by the NDIS.
To self-manage NDIS funding, participants must meet certain eligibility criteria and follow a set of guidelines provided by the NDIS. They must also be willing to take on additional responsibilities such as keeping track of their spending, reporting to the NDIS, and ensuring that they are meeting their obligations as an employer if they choose to hire their own support workers.
It is recommended that participants who are considering self-managing their NDIS funding seek advice from a professional such as a financial planner or support coordinator, to ensure that they are fully informed and prepared for the responsibilities involved.
Benefits of working with a support coordinator.
A support coordinator is a professional who can assist individuals with navigating complex support systems and accessing necessary services and resources. Hiring a support coordinator can provide numerous benefits, including:
Improved access to services
A support coordinator can help you identify and access the services and resources you need to achieve your goals, such as healthcare, education, housing, employment, and social services.
Customised support
A support coordinator can work with you to develop a personalised plan that meets your unique needs and goals. This can help ensure that you receive the support that is tailored to your specific situation.
Reduced stress
Navigating support systems and accessing services can be a complex and time-consuming process. A support coordinator can handle the details and paperwork for you, reducing stress and making the process more manageable.
Increased independence
By providing you with the tools and resources you need, a support coordinator can help you become more independent and self-sufficient. This can improve your quality of life and increase your sense of empowerment.
Advocacy
A support coordinator can advocate on your behalf and help you navigate complex systems such as the healthcare system, social services, or the justice system. This can be particularly beneficial if you are facing barriers or challenges in accessing services or support.
Overall, hiring a support coordinator can provide you with the support, guidance, and advocacy you need to achieve your goals and live a more fulfilling life.
Important questions to ask your support coordinator.
If you are receiving support coordination services, here are some important questions to ask your support coordinator:
- What are the goals of my support plan, and how can I work towards achieving them?
- What services are available to me, and how can I access them?
- What are my rights as a person receiving support coordination services?
- What is the process for making changes to my support plan, and how can I request these changes?
- How often will we review my support plan, and what can I expect during these reviews?
- What are the expectations for communication between us, and how can I reach you if I have questions or concerns?
- How can you help me to connect with community resources and services that may be beneficial to me?
- What are the steps I should take if I am experiencing any issues or concerns with my support coordination services?
- How can you assist me in building my skills and achieving greater independence?
- How can you support me in maintaining my personal relationships and social connections within my community?
What to look for in a support coordinator?
If you have decided to work with a coordinator, it is best to find one that matches your personality and has good credentials. When looking for a support coordinator, there are a few important things to consider:
Qualifications and experience
Look for someone who has experience working in the field of support coordination and has the necessary qualifications and certifications. Ideally, they should have a background in social work or a related field.
Communication skills
A good support coordinator should have excellent communication skills and be able to listen to your needs and concerns. They should also be capable of explaining complex information and processes in a way that is easy to understand.
Empathy and compassion
It’s important to work with a support coordinator who is compassionate and empathetic. They should have the ability to understand your unique situation and be able to offer emotional support as well as practical assistance.
Organisational skills
A support coordinator should be highly organised and able to manage multiple tasks and deadlines. They should also be able to keep track of important information and documents.
Problem-solving skills
A good support coordinator should be able to think creatively and come up with solutions to any problems that arise. They should also be able to anticipate potential concerns and take steps to prevent them from occurring.
Knowledge of resources and services
A support coordinator should have a thorough understanding of the resources and services available in your community. They should be able to connect you with the appropriate services and help you navigate the system.
Trustworthiness
Finally, it’s important to work with a support coordinator who is trustworthy and ethical. They should prioritise your needs and be transparent in their actions and decisions.
Finding the Best NDIS Support Coordination Near Me
SupportNest is a safe haven for all individuals who are seeking for quality and inclusive disability care in Melbourne. Let us help you in maximising your NDIS funding and creating a specialist support coordination plan that matches your high complex needs. Feel our genuine care for your wellbeing the moment you step into our office. Get the most reliable NDIS support and services when you contact SupportNest today!
