Unique Care Group is frequently contacted by NDIS participants, families, and Support Coordinators for advice about Support Coordination. Participants often express uncertainty about the role of their Support Coordinator, while coordinators themselves sometimes seek advocacy for a participant for tasks within their own scope of responsibilities.
What does the NDIS ask your Support Coordinator to do?
Upon choosing a Support Coordinator, the NDIS sends them a ‘Request for Service’ form outlining the expected implementation of your plan.
The Support Coordinator to Do List
The Request for Service provides a standard list of responsibilities for Support Coordinators, including:
- Support participants in understanding the NDIS.
- Assist in comprehending plan details and utilising funding.
- Educate on using the online Portal.
- Help in finding service providers and offering feedback.
- Assist in changing providers and evaluating options.
- Support in establishing service agreements.
- Ensure proper completion of service bookings.
- Make referrals for needed assessments and urgent equipment requests.
- Implement the plan and complete tasks on the participant’s behalf as needed.
- Find community support and activity opportunities.
- Ensure support workers follow allied health therapists’ recommendations.
- Report to the NDIS on plan progress, typically two and nine months into a one-year plan.
- Monitor budget adherence and spending.
- Teach participants to self-coordinate supports for future independence.
- Provide crisis support (e.g., homelessness, hospitalisation).
- Ensure participants access entitlements from other systems (housing, health, justice, education).
- Aid in plan review preparations, identifying successful supports and future needs.
- Prepare information for reviews, both scheduled and unscheduled.
Other duties as per the NDIS Code of Conduct
Support Coordinators must:
- Offer unbiased information and avoid conflicts of interest.
- Report unqualified tasks as per their training.
- Address concerns about service quality and safety.
- Report any instances of abuse, neglect, and exploitation to appropriate authorities.
Limitations of a Support Coordinator
Support Coordinators cannot:
- Be paid for advocacy services.
- Manage staff rosters or provide personal care.
Do I need an advocate if I already have a Support Coordinator?
Independent advocacy represents a person or group with minimal conflict of interest, separate from NDIS funding. Support Coordinators are expected to minimize conflicts of interest and consult with the participant’s network or defer to independent advocates when necessary.
When to involve an independent advocate:
- Resolving conflicts about decisions.
- Addressing undue pressure on decision-making.
- Navigating situations beyond the participant’s network’s capability (e.g., abuse investigations, guardianship applications).
For advocacy advice, referral, or direct assistance, contact UNIQUE CARE GROUP at 0458 044 838 or email admin@uniquecaregroup.com.au.
Explore Our Services at Unique Care Group
At Unique Care Group, we’re committed to providing supportive services tailored to meet your unique needs. Our wide range of services ensures that no matter your journey, you have the guidance and support you require to live your best life.
Support Coordination
Ease into your NDIS plan with our Support Coordination services. Whether you’re looking for Level 2 or Level 3 support, our team is here to simplify the process, helping you understand and utilise your plan effectively.
Recovery Coaching
Journey towards wellbeing with the aid of our Recovery Coaches. Specialising in psychosocial support, they’re equipped to guide you through the recovery process, fostering resilience and empowerment every step of the way.
Justice System Support
Transitioning back into the community can be challenging. Our Justice System Support service is designed for individuals reintegrating from justice or correctional systems, offering the understanding and assistance needed during this time.
Community Connection
Dive into the heart of your community with our Community Connection services. Tailored to your personal goals, our specialist team connects you with community services, ensuring a supportive network and enriching experiences.
Skill Development
Empowerment through learning is at the core of our Skill Development activities. Aimed at enhancing the abilities of individuals with disabilities, these activities are designed to foster independence and confidence.
NDIS Mentoring
Navigate your NDIS journey with confidence. Our mentoring services are here to assist participants in overcoming challenges and making informed, positive decisions for a fulfilling life.
NDIS & Disability Transport
Our Transport solutions prioritise your independence and ease of access to the community. Designed with your needs in mind, we ensure that getting around is convenient, safe, and tailored to your lifestyle.
Planning and Budgeting
Master your finances with our Planning and Budgeting support. We guide you through daily spending and financial planning, empowering you to manage your resources wisely and with confidence.
Daily Activities
Live independently with our Daily Activities assistance. From personal care tasks to day-to-day routines, our support is designed to encourage self-reliance in all aspects of daily living.
At Unique Care Group, your journey is our priority. With a focus on empowering individuals and connecting communities, we’re here to support you at every step. Reach out to us to discover how our services can enhance your life.
