Embarking on your journey with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can feel like stepping into a vast, new world.
But fear not!
With the right guidance and resources, you’ll soon be navigating your plan with confidence and ease. Once your NDIS plan is approved, it’s crucial to get a grip on your different budgets, who can help you get started, and how to manage everything smoothly.
To help you kick off, we’ve put together this handy guide. For more in depth information, visit the Using Your Plan page on the NDIS website.
1. Get Help Starting Your Plan
The NDIS offers a variety of support roles to help you and your family make the most of your plan and achieve your goals. Let’s break it down:
Early Childhood Partners
If your child is under 9, early childhood partners are your go-to experts. These specialists are seasoned in early intervention, helping to set up and implement plans that aim for the best long-term outcomes for your little one.
Local Area Coordinators (LACs)
For participants over 9, Local Area Coordinators, or LACs, are there to help you understand and use your NDIS plan. They’ll assist with everything from accessing supports and services to regularly monitoring your progress.
Support Coordinators
Need a bit more help? Support coordinators are here for those requiring additional assistance in managing their NDIS plans. They focus on fostering your independence and connecting you with the services you need. For those with complex needs, specialist support coordination is also available.
Implementation Meetings
To get the most out of your plan, you might be invited to an implementation meeting. This is a fantastic opportunity to dive into the details of using your plan, including how to access the myplace portal and find the right service providers. Remember to bring someone you trust and jot down any questions beforehand!
2. Understanding Your Plan
The NDIS is designed to give you as much choice and control as possible over your supports. Here’s a quick snapshot of what your plan will include and how your support team can assist:
What’s in Your Plan?
- Information About You: Basic details about your disability, daily life, living arrangements, and caregivers.
- Family and Friends: Information on the informal support you receive from loved ones.
- Services and Community Groups: Details on other supports you access, like community services and public amenities.
- Your Goals: Your short-term and long-term aspirations, which will guide the supports you receive.
- Funded Supports: The funding allocated for various support categories, tailored to your individual needs.
How Your Support Team Can Help
Your early childhood partner, LAC, or support coordinator can:
- Help you understand your plan and the supports it covers.
- Clarify the responsibilities of other services, like health or education.
- Connect you with community services and government supports.
- Assist in finding suitable providers and setting up service agreements.
- Serve as a point of contact for any questions or changes in your situation.
3. Managing Your Plan
Now that you have your plan, it’s essential to make it work for you. To manage your plan effectively, you’ll need to know how to:
- Use the myplace portal – the secure NDIS participant portal.
- Manage your budget.
- Understand pricing changes.
- Share your plan.
- Use the My NDIS mobile app.
- Claim from your plan.
Self-Management
Self-management in the NDIS gives you the flexibility and control to choose and manage the supports that best suit your goals. It involves responsibilities like budgeting, purchasing supports, and potentially hiring staff. The NDIS provides guides and policies on self-management, along with resources and support to help you navigate the process. To start self-managing, speak with your Local Area Coordinator or NDIA planner.
4. Changing Your Plan
Life is full of changes, and your NDIS plan can adapt to them. If significant changes occur in your circumstances, you can request a plan reassessment using a change of circumstances form. If you’re dissatisfied with a decision about your plan, you can request an internal review. If the internal review doesn’t resolve your concerns, you can appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). NDIS Appeals offers support, including access to skilled disability advocates and funding for legal services in complex cases. For assistance, contact your early childhood partner, local area coordinator, or the NDIA.
For more detailed information get in touch with Devoted Supports today or visit our resource page!
