Finding the right type of accommodation or support services under the NDIS can be an absolute game changer for participants and their families. There are many types of care in Melbourne which can help individuals living with disabilities achieve a goal of living independently and fulfilling lives. If you are looking for long-term supported accommodation or short-term accommodation (to provide a break, recuperate and support building skills), there are possibilities for participants in Melbourne, and providers play an important role in providing assurance that participants are safe, well taken care of and fair towards the participant’s development.
Understanding the NDIS accommodation options in Melbourne
1. Supported Independent Living (SIL)
- SIL is for participants supported daily to help them live independently.
- This can be delivered in individual arrangements or as a shared home, regardless the supported living companies will aim to work with you to support you to achieve your goals and living to the requirements of the NDIA.
- The support is flexible, and your individual plan may include support for personal care, cooking, cleaning, transportation to appointments, and community access.
2. Short-Term Accommodation (STA)
- Short term accommodation is temporary accommodation with care provided. The participant is in an unfamiliar environment, a ‘break’ for both the participant and the participant’s family/staff.
- STA is to provide respite, support the participant changing new accommodation or environment and build life skills in a different environment.
- Stays can be from a few days to a few weeks, usually depending on the employment plan, or participants’ individual needs.
3. Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
- SDA is specifically designed for participants requiring high levels of support.
- Homes have an accessibility plan with specialist features that are intended to make it as safe, mobile, and independent as possible.
What constitutes quality Accommodation and Support?
1. A person-centred approach
Every participant has different hopes and needs and the best providers will create an individualised service to meet those needs.
2. A safe and comfortable place
Accommodation must not only comply with NDIS standards but create a welcoming and homely feel.
3. Opportunities to build skills through everyday activities
Support workers encourage each participant to gain independence by learning skills in cooking, budgeting and planning travel.
4. Community access
Access to local activities, employment support, and social opportunities is an important aspect of improving quality of life.
5. Flexible levels of support
Support ranges from minimal assistance to 24/7 care, and the right support plan will be flexible to ensure that it fits the evolving needs of a participant.
Benefits of choosing the right accommodation provider
- Consistent Support Workers: Can build rapport and personalise care for the individual.
- Transparent communication: Provides families and/or guardians with clear updates.
- Tailored Daily Routines: Individualised routines allow for safer independence.
- Access to allied health services: Provides a connection with allied health professionals and each participant’s therapists, medical practitioners, and community enabled programs.
- Smooth transition: Provides assistance if there are moves between accommodation types or providers.
The Impact of Accommodation Services on Everyday Life
1. Independence
Developing the ability to manage the tasks of daily living can increase your sense of independence and confidence, and reduce reliance on others.
2. Social Skills
Living in a shared arrangement encourages communication, cooperation, and friendships.
3. Health and Wellbeing
Structured daily routines, regular, healthy meals, and opportunities for health support contribute to overall health and wellbeing.
4. Respite for Families
STA services provide family care providers with peace of mind knowing that their loved one is cared for while they take time to rest. This is where STA providers Melbourne, ensure that participants are provided a safe, engaging ,and well supported temporary living arrangement.
What to Consider When Choosing a Provider
- Accreditation and registration with the NDIS.
- Experience in supporting people with different levels of requirements.
- Referrals and good reviews.
- Close proximity to family, friends, and/or community.
- Availability of vacancies to suit the participants everyday schedule.
Example of Support in Motion
A participant moving from their family home to a supported living, is likely to receive:
- An initial meeting to determine the support that is needed.
- A match to a property based upon the participants preferences and accessibility needs.
- Meeting the current house mates (if applicable) to see if there is a good fit.
- A transition plan for regular visits to their new home to help the participant prepare for the move.
- Ongoing review of the participants’ support plan in relation to their changing goals.
The Importance of Melbourne’s Providers
Melbourne has an extensive network of disability accommodation providers with variety of services. Whether you are seeking the ongoing assistance provided by SIL providers Melbourne, or short-term assistance, providers focus on quality of life, independence, and a commitment of safety, respect, and value for every person.
How Do Participants and Families Benefit from Good Quality Support
- Peace of Mind: Families can be confident their loved one is receiving good quality care.
- Personal Development: Participants develop the skills and confidence they need to achieve their goals.
- Greater Connections: Participants have many opportunities to engage with their peers and the wider community.
Tips to Ensure a Smooth Transition into a New Accommodation
- Visit the property prior to moving in.
- Meet the support staff to get a good understanding of their approach.
- Discuss routines and preferences as early as possible.
- Continue to engage with care plan reviews.
- Encourage and demonstrate an open feedback path to deal with issues quickly.
Closing
Selecting the right accommodation and support under the NDIS, is not just about finding a place, it’s about creating an environment to promote independence, personal development, and meaningful relationships.
The wide range of providers in Melbourne is a comfort and assurance to participants and their families that human need will be met with compassion, professionalism, and commitment to quality.