Benefits of supported independent living NDIS

July 12, 2021

Supported Independent Living NDIS

If you or the person you care for requires a high level of daily support, you might be thinking about applying for supported independent living NDIS

Supported independent living is the name of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funding that provides assistance for eligible people with a disability, ensuring they have the skills to live as independently as possible.

There are many benefits to this type of support. Not only does it help you build independence and confidence, but it provides you the freedom and control to help you achieve your goals. Before we get into all the benefits of supported independent living, we will answer some of the most common questions about this type of support. 

Who is eligible for funding? 

Funding for SIL is usually provided to people who need 24/7 support while living in a shared home, however, you may still be eligible if you have lower support needs or live in a different type of housing, such as with your family. People who are receiving NDIS funding for autism may also be eligible for supported independent living.  

What will NDIS fund as part of supported independent living? 

Depending on the level of support you require, a wide range of supported independent living services may be included in your NDIS plan. Although most supports are delivered inside your home, some may also be delivered within the community, depending on your personal goals and plan inclusions.

Some of the supported independent living NDIS services include:

  • Support with daily life skills including cooking, doing laundry, cleaning, and garden and home maintenance
  • Personal care such as showering, toileting and dressing
  • Overnight support (for those with higher level needs)
  • Participation in activities such as sports, community access and other recreational activities
  • Development of social, relationship and communication skills
  • Help with budgeting, including managing and paying expenses

 

What are the benefits of supported independent living NDIS

  1. Growing your independence

Supported independent living is designed to help you learn to live independently and manage your own life. While there is always a professional there to offer support when you need it, you have the autonomy to make your own decisions about your care. Your support person can also help you learn new skills so that you can gain the confidence to do them by yourself. 

  1. Meeting new people 

Moving out of home and living in a supported independent living environment enables you to meet people who are in a similar situation to you. Most independent living support services will try to match you to other house mates who are of a similar age and share similar interests to you. Sharing a home when receiving funding for supported independent living has many benefits, including: 

  • Sharing the cost of rent
  • Sharing the cost of some disability supports 
  • Having the company of another person who can share household responsibilities 

Read more about supported independent living housing options

  1. Receiving tailored support 

Because everyone’s care needs are different, the level of support required from supported independent living will also be different. The NDIS tailors the funding for this type of support to the level of care you require, so that you can get the most out of your support and live as independently as possible. 

Usually delivered by an independent support worker NDIS, there are three levels of support for SIL which are categorised by the NDIS as:

  • Lower needs – This low level of support is usually not provided 24/7 and includes regular supervision of living arrangements.
  • Standard needs – This level of support is available 24/7 and includes overnight support and the supervision of most day-to-day tasks.
  • Higher needs – This is the highest level of SIL available and includes continual active support with day and night activities. This level is often only required by those with high medical needs or complex behavioural disabilities.

 

Have more questions about supported independent living? The team at Disability Plan Services understand the NDIS and can help you to get the most out of your plan.

If you think you may need supported independent living but don’t currently have funding in your plan for it, we can help you to request a plan review and ask for funding to be added to your plan. Once you’ve received funding, we can also help to ensure you are receiving the best possible supports in your chosen living arrangements.

Get in touch with our friendly team by calling 1800 312 870 or email info@disabilityplanservices.com.au