NDIS participants often find managing their plans overwhelming. An NDIS support coordinator steps in to simplify this process. They help you understand your plan, organise your supports, and link you with the right support service providers. Their goal is to reduce your stress, provide peace of mind, and ensure you get the most from your NDIS funding.
This article explains the role of an NDIS support coordinator, how they help you maximise your plan, and how to check if you have funding for this service.
What is NDIS Support Coordination?
NDIS support coordination involves managing your plan, accessing supports, and allocating your funding to services that suit your needs. The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIS) offers three distinct levels of support coordination, each tailored to different levels of participant requirements:
Level 1: Support Connection
This short-term assistance helps participants understand their plans and connect with service providers, local community resources, mainstream services, and other supports. It sets the foundation to get the most out of your NDIS plan.
Level 2: Coordination of Supports
At this stage, coordinators organise a mix of capacity-building services and supports. Their focus is to help participants build skills to maintain relationships, manage daily tasks, live more independently, and participate actively in the community.
Level 3: Specialist Support Coordination
This is the highest level and targets participants facing complex challenges. Specialist coordinators manage these issues and ensure services deliver consistently and effectively in difficult situations.
What is the Role of an NDIS Support Coordinator?
An NDIS support coordinator plays a vital role in helping participants navigate the complexities of their plans. They work with you to clarify your goals, create action plans, and implement strategies to achieve them. Their responsibilities include:
- Helping you understand your NDIS plan clearly.
- Planning and coordinating your supports effectively.
- Connecting you with appropriate service providers.
- Establishing and maintaining ongoing support arrangements.
- Coaching you to build independence and confidence.
- Reflecting on your progress and refining strategies.
- Reporting your progress to the NDIA.
- Preparing you for unexpected events or crises.
- Acting in your best interest throughout.
In short, the coordinator works as your advocate and guide, helping you maximise your plan’s benefits.
Benefits of Using an NDIS Support Coordinator
Using a skilled coordinator brings several advantages:
- You gain a clearer understanding of your plan.
- You spend less time stressed and more time focusing on your goals.
- They connect you with a wide range of providers, including government and community services.
- Your independence and confidence improve as you learn to manage and coordinate supports.
- Ongoing assistance supports you, your family, and carers in managing your plan and funding.
- They help negotiate and manage service agreements with allied health providers, both short and long-term.
- Coordinators prepare you thoroughly for your NDIS plan review.
With professional help, you’re less likely to miss out on services you qualify for and better placed to achieve your goals.
How to Know if You Have Funding for an NDIS Support Coordinator
The NDIS includes funding for coordination under the Capacity Building budget, but only if the services are deemed “reasonable and necessary” for your goals. The NDIA also considers the support you already receive from family, friends, and other community or government services.
Your plan will specify the level of support coordination you can access. If it does, you must purchase the level stated. However, if your plan does not specify the level, you can choose the option that suits your needs best.
If your plan lacks funding for a coordinator or you want to adjust your level, your Local Area Coordinator can assist you with these changes.
Additional Tips to Get the Most from Your NDIS Plan
Besides working with an NDIS support coordinator, here are some strategies to enhance your plan’s effectiveness:
- Stay informed: Regularly review NDIS updates and policy changes that might affect your plan.
- Set clear goals: Write down achievable, measurable goals for your plan period.
- Keep records: Document your service agreements, progress notes, and communications with providers.
- Review regularly: Plan reviews are your chance to update goals and request funding changes if needed.
- Advocate for yourself: Learn about your rights and don’t hesitate to raise concerns or request reviews if necessary.
An NDIS support coordinator is an essential partner for many participants. They provide clarity, organisation, and advocacy to make your NDIS journey less stressful and more successful. Whether you need light assistance or specialist help with complex situations, support coordination ensures you use your plan effectively and reach your goals.
If you’re unsure about your funding or want personalised assistance, your Local Area Coordinator or a provider like AHP Disability and Home Care can help.
Support Coordination Services at AHP
At AHP, we provide individualised, goal-focused support coordination for NDIS participants of all abilities. Our experienced NDIS support coordinators collaborate with you to find the right providers and supports for your unique needs.
Whether you face complex situations or need help participating in everyday life, our coordinators are ready to assist. Our disability support service focuses entirely on you, ensuring you unlock your plan’s full potential.
How AHP Support Coordinators Help You
- Connect you with formal and informal supports tailored to your specific needs.
- Guide you through your NDIS plan to maximise your funding and options.
- Link you with providers who can help you meet your goals.
- Follow up regularly to ensure your support is effective.
- Support you through unexpected challenges along the way.
If you want to learn more about AHP’s services, call 1800 247 342 or complete our referral form today.
