Morris with dad, David
Support Coordination is a vital support for many NDIS participants. Eligibility for this is as complex as any other part of an NDIS Plan, however it ensures participants are able to understand and use their plans effectively and appropriately.
I spoke with Morris's dad David about their experience of having Morris’s Support Coordination funding suddenly cut, and the steps they had to take to get it built back into his Plan.
- Can you tell us what happened with Morris’s plan when the Support Coordination funding was removed?
When our Support Coordination was revoked for Morris’s plan, devastation was the first thing that came to mind. Lesley (our Support Coordinator) had worked so hard to assist us with a review as Morris wasn’t thriving on the funding he had. More support to build his confidence and capacity was identified. Our shock and bewilderment upon the Plan offered was an understatement. To have lost so much was not expected, but the NDIS completely took away our Support Coordination which we relied on when needed.
- How did you feel about such a big impact?
The feeling of abandonment – we felt like we had nobody on our side, through no fault of My Ability Pathway. The NDIS had removed funding and were pushing us to seek help from Margaret at Feros Care, our Local Area Coordinator. While Margaret has been extremely helpful, local support was missing.
- What steps did you need to take to get Support Coordination back in Morris’s plan?
Steps taken to have this decision reversed … we obtained help from Margaret, our LAC, who was frustrated with our predicament. We pushed on with a second review, and when I spoke directly to the NDIS I made it very clear this defunding of Support Coordination was not fair at all – it is a right of Morris’s to have this avenue of support and we just didn’t know everything to get the best for Morris, unlike having a Support Coordinator.
- Who helped you with the process?
We had help, in particular from Lesley just before her retirement. Lesley organised a Functional Capacity Assessment through Abilities OT in Angaston. This was extremely important as it was able to demonstrate that Morris hadn’t progressed much. He’d had several setbacks in particular with his mental wellbeing. Again, another important factor in having Support Coordination – Lesley knew where to head to for this process, as she worked locally. Because we’d been through this process before, Katie from Abilities OT booked an appointment within a week, which typically could have taken a few months.
- How long did it take to get the Support Coordination funding back in Morris’s plan?
Obtaining Support Coordination back took months, and we were very disillusioned because of the NDIS decision. I can say however, Charlotte Williams (MAP General Manager) was completely compassionate and helpful. Although we had no funds, her support on behalf of My Ability Pathway was what helped us through. I made it known that their ongoing help, although not being funded, was extremely appreciated.
- How has this result helped you and Morris?
Morris’s demeanour has completely changed since everything has been reinstated. He’s got his enthusiasm back and he sees the future as positive. There’s much greatness ahead, with opportunities to build confidence and capacity for a more independent life.
- Please share any other successes or triumphs you have had.
Morris has been having success, he’s continually been having Mick on Wednesdays, for finding and keeping a job support. With these two hours sessions in Gawler, Mick takes Morris for learner driving lessons. His driving is improving and progressing! Bradley takes Morris on Mondays, typically cooking from recipes, or they will go out and socialise in the community, buying lunch or ingredients for cooking. Bradley from Redgum Disability Services was also engaged due to Karen, our original Support Coordinator.
- What’s one thing you’d love for other people to know about your experience?
While things seem futile, push on and don’t give up. We understand the NDIS had to make changes as there was organised fraudulent behaviour ongoing. However it’s extremely unfair for honest participants like Morris to have such an unfair experience. All we want is Morris to have continual support to develop his capacity and head for gradual independence. This takes time, but this implemented plan has given us much hope to gain this.
It’s been a very tedious time … we started this review October 2024, but we’ve pushed on with a great outcome. Just very pleased to have our Support Coordination back and funded really well. Thanks to My Ability Pathway for their continued support.
Thank you, David! We wish Morris and you continued success for the future!
