The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a program that provides funding and support to eligible Australians with permanent and significant disabilities. The aim of the NDIS is to help these individuals achieve greater independence and lead fulfilling lives. One of the key components of the NDIS is supporting NDIS participants to achieve independent living. This article will outline some easy steps for achieving NDIS-supported independent living, both in the short and long term.
Short-term steps for achieving NDIS-supported independent living
Identify your goals and aspirations
The first step towards achieving NDIS-supported independent living is to identify your goals and aspirations. Think about what you want to achieve in the short and long term, and what steps you need to take to get there. This could include learning new skills, finding employment, or gaining access to community activities.
Develop a plan
Once you have identified your goals, the next step is to develop a plan for achieving them. Your plan should outline the steps you need to take to achieve your goals, as well as any support or services you require. You may need to work with an NDIS planner or support coordinator to develop your plan.
Access support and services
The NDIS provides funding for a range of support and services to help you achieve your goals. This could include support with daily living tasks, therapy and rehabilitation services, or assistance with finding employment. Work with your support coordinator to identify the support and services that will best meet your needs.
Build your skills and knowledge
Building your skills and knowledge is an important step towards achieving independent living. This could include learning new skills, such as cooking or budgeting, or gaining qualifications or work experience. The NDIS may fund these activities if they are identified in your plan.
Connect with your community
Connecting with your community is an important part of achieving independent living. This could involve participating in community activities or events, joining social groups, or volunteering. The NDIS may fund support to help you access these activities.
Long-term steps for achieving NDIS-supported independent living
Develop a career plan
If you are interested in finding employment, developing a career plan is an important step towards achieving independent living in the long term. This could involve identifying your strengths and interests, researching potential careers, and setting goals for gaining the skills and experience required for your chosen field.
Build your network
Building your network is important for both personal and professional development. This could involve attending networking events, joining industry associations, or participating in mentoring programs. Building your network can help you access new opportunities and gain valuable support and advice.
Focus on your health and wellbeing
Maintaining good health and wellbeing is important for achieving independent living in the long term. This could involve developing healthy habits, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, as well as accessing support and services to manage any health conditions.
Explore housing options
Housing is an important consideration for achieving independent living in the long term. The NDIS may fund support to help you explore your housing options and identify the best solution for your needs. This could include supported accommodation or assistance with finding suitable private rental accommodation.
Plan for the future
Planning for the future is an important step towards achieving independent living in the long term. This could involve creating a financial plan, setting goals for future study or career progression, or identifying the support and services you may need as you age.
How to get help achieving NDIS-supported independent living?
If you are an NDIS participant, there are many organisations that can help you achieve your goals and aspirations for independent living. One such organisation is Carepro Disability Services, a trusted NDIS services provider of disability support services in Australia. Carepro Disability Services can help you take the easy steps towards achieving NDIS-supported independent living by providing the necessary support and services.
