Recognising your goals and developing a plan for effective fund management isn’t as easy as it may sound. When you’re applying for NDIS funding, you need to connect with a professional who can help you understand and manage your plan and access the specific supports you need. That’s where the role of a support coordinator comes in. They’ll work collaboratively with you and your family to develop a plan that meets your unique needs, build your skills to manage the plan and help you attain your life goals.
What Is Support Coordination?
Support coordination is a specialised NDIS-funded service designed to build participants’ capacity to manage their chosen supports under the NDIS. At the outset, support coordination gives choice and control over the specific supports and empowers participants to get the most out of their plan. Our support coordinators at Live and Learn Disability Group work closely with you and are committed to providing holistic assistance to figure out the best outcome for every individual.
Who is a Support Coordinator & How Can You Benefit?
A support coordinator is your main point of contact when it comes to managing all client-related support services. A support coordinator is a professional who helps you manage your NDIS plan. They’ll work with you to come up with goals and make sure that you’re on track towards achieving them. Your support coordinator will also help you connect with the right providers and assist you every step of the way. They’re equally responsible for monitoring your plan, making necessary adjustments, and helping you stay on track. In other words, they’re your go-to person for all NDIS-related services.
What are the Key Responsibilities of a Support Coordinator?
When you’re registered with the NDIS, you’re given a list of approved service providers. But how do you choose the right one? Effective plan management is crucial to make the most of your NDIS fund and support coordinators rightly help you achieve that so that you can live independently. This may include helping you access various services and programs, providing information and referrals, and advocating on your behalf. Your support coordinator is responsible for making sure that your experience is ultimate.
The key responsibilities of a support coordinator include –
- Capacity Building – Support coordinators provide necessary guidance on understanding NDIS funding, implementing the scheme and helping participants make informed choices. Through consistent support, participants gain confidence and skills to manage their plans autonomously.
- Connecting with Right Providers – A support coordinator helps participants explore a wide range of support providers, compare options and choose the one that can meet their unique needs. They ensure that their chosen providers align with their goals and individual preferences.
- Monitoring & Reviewing the Plan – Support coordinators regularly monitor participants’ progress, make necessary adjustments in requirements and support individuals during NDIS plan reviews. They assist them in gathering essential documents and advocate for changes if needed.
- Building a Sustainable Network – Establishing a reliable support network with family, friends and communities is one of the key roles of a support coordinator. From assisting with planning meetings, goal settings to resolving conflicts, a support coordinator can do all that can match your needs.
So, what can you do to make sure your coordinator does the job effectively? Stay in touch, provide feedback, and let them know when there’s an issue.
Support Coordinators and Case Managers
Your support coordinator is the person who will be working with you and your case manager to ensure that you’re getting the best possible service. They act as a liaison between you and your case manager, and they’re also responsible for coordinating all of your support options.
Conclusion
Now that you know a little more about what a support coordinator does, you can decide if you need one. If you have a chronic illness or are struggling to manage your care on your own, in this context, a support coordinator can play a vital role. They can help connect you with resources and services, provide emotional support and advocate for you.
If you’re interested in finding a support coordinator, the best place to start is by asking your doctor or case manager for a referral.
A support coordinator can make a big difference in your NDIS journey, so it’s worth finding one whom you can trust. If you are not sure whether you need a support coordinator, you can always contact Live and Learn Disability Group directly to discuss your options.