Demystifying the NDIS – A Simple Guide for Participants and Families

This blog post aims to answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) and introduce common NDIS terms for people who are new to the NDIS and looking to engage with a provider of NDIS supports, in particular personal care supports.

We’ve included helpful information for NDIS participants, their families, students and anyone interested in learning more about the NDIS, or who may be considering working with Help at Hand Support.

Understanding Your NDIS Journey

Navigating the NDIS system is no easy feat, with acronyms, changing laws and frequent updates, and many, many NDIS providers to choose to work with. Below are some of the basic first concepts to understand when working with an NDIS provider:

• Quality & Safety: Prioritising the safety of NDIS participants safety is a key element when providing disability support services. This should be done by providers conducting ongoing risk assessments, creating care plans tailored to individual needs, and ensuring care staff have proper training and qualifications.
• Finding the Right Support Worker: Matching isn’t random! Help at Hand Support connects participants with staff who are passionate about disability support and share similar interests.
• Support Worker Responsibilities: Support workers assist participants with daily living activities which can include help accessing and engaging with the community, household tasks, meal preparation, shopping, attending appointments, partaking in hobbies and special interests.

Understanding NDIS Roles

Next, we break down the roles of Plan Managers, Support Coordinators, and Care Coordinators (offered by Help at Hand Support) to clarify their functions in supporting participants.

• The Role of a NDIS Support Coordinator

Support coordinators help participants find support workers and services, and help them to understand their funding. They also prepare for NDIS reviews, and ensure participants have the right level of support.

• The Role of a NDIS Plan Manager

Plan managers help participants pay invoices and manage their budgets. They can also provide support with understanding invoices and reviewing expenses. Overall, plan managers ensure participants have control over their NDIS funds.

• The Role of an NDIS Care Coordinator

Care coordinators act as a central point of contact, assisting participants with care plan development, support coordination, liaising with the NDIS and the participants wider care team which can include family members, friends, unpaid carers, allied health and other health professionals.

Being an Empowered NDIS Participant:

• Know Your Rights: NDIS participants should understand their rights and the support services available to them.
• Advocate for Yourself: Don’t hesitate to speak up for your needs and request changes to your plan if necessary.
• Build a Strong Support Network: Connect with other NDIS participants, support groups, and community organisations for guidance and shared experiences.
• Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with NDIS news and changes by following relevant resources and attending information sessions.

Help at Hand Support: Your Partner in NDIS

By now, we hope you are armed with a clearer understanding of NDIS basics and what working with a NDIS provider can look like. With an emphasis on quality care and participant empowerment, Help at Hand Support provide a unique level of care by working collaboratively with participants, support coordinators, and health teams to ensure a holistic approach to your NDIS journey.

Get in Touch!

We hope this blog post has been informative. If you would like further clarification on anything mentioned in this article, please contact us Help at Hand Support for further assistance, our team of NDIS specialists would be happy to speak with you.