Here we provide an explanation of the role a Support Coordinator has in assisting you to understand your plan and implement the supports you need with your NDIS funding.
A Support Coordinators role could be described as a bit like a conductor. A conductor interprets the music then guides and directs the orchestra on how to play the music. The Support Coordinator does a similar task by interpreting the funding in your NDIS plan and then guiding and bridging the connection with the appropriate services for your needs. The Support Coordinators role changes and adapts to what your needs are during your NDIS experience.
This can be broken down into four steps.
Whether you are new to the NDIS or have a new plan, a Support Coordinator will work with you to identify and understand what supports are available in your NDIS plan. They will then discuss options with you of supports and services you can access to achieve your NDIS goals.
Example :Jane has capacity building in her NDIS Plan to help her with her communication. The Support Coordinator will identify suitable Speech Pathologist’s and provide options to Jane so she can build on her communication skills.
Support Coordinators provide information and connections to increase your understanding of the NDIS. This may be finding answers to questions or supporting you to understand how to self-manage your NDIS plan. Everybody receives their own individualised support.
Example: Bill has funding for Supported Independent Living (SIL) but does not know where to start. The Support Coordinator will find SIL providers that Bill can meet with, to look at different options for his housing needs.
Life changes, and your supports may need to change to best fit your new circumstances. Support Coordinators help you plan for changes and prepare for unexpected emergencies.
Example: Jenny’s mum is her main carer, she has become sick needing to spend time in hospital. Jenny’s Support Coordinator will inform the NDIS that Jenny’s circumstances have changed and she will need more support because her mum can’t care for her. The Support Coordinator will work alongside Jenny to secure her the support she needs to maintain her independence.
The Support Coordinator will gather information about the supports you have been receiving for your plan review, if your circumstances have changed they will access the expertise required to inform the NDIS of these changes, to support the need for additional funding in your next NDIS plan.
Example : Since Brian’s last plan review his circumstances have changed a lot. He now needs more help around the house because he is less mobile. The Support Coordinator will arrange for a Functional Assessment to be done by an Occupational Therapist (OT) so this can be presented at his plan review meeting to apply for more funding in his next NDIS Plan.
If you, a friend or family member are trying to understand your NDIS Plan it is worth making contact with provider to discuss your options. MAP is always there to answer your questions with no obligations.
For more information go to
www.ndis.gov.au/participants/using-your-plan/who-can-help-start-your-plan/support-coordination