Understanding NDIS-funded social supports for young adults
Have you – or the young adult in your life – recently received access to the NDIS, and would like to receive NDIS social supports in your plan? Maybe you’ve recently been approved for NDIS social supports within your plan and want to know what to do next.
In this article, we will discuss what is meant by NDIS social supports, what is covered under NDIS social supports and recreation, why you would require social and recreation support under your NDIS plan, and why Greater Support Coordination is the best service to help you receive your required NDIS support.
What are NDIS social supports?
NDIS social supports (otherwise known as NDIS social and recreation support) is designed to help people with a disability access the community and increase their social participation within the community, through the funds provided by the NDIS.
Everyone who accesses the NDIS is different, and the rules and guidelines set out within the NDIS are strict when it comes to approval of what is and is not covered by the NDIS.
How are requests for NDIS social supports assessed?
Requests for NDIS social supports are assessed the same way anything else requested at your initial planning meeting is assessed. Your LAC needs to answer two main questions.
- Is the request for NDIS social supports reasonable and necessary?
- Would the social supports be better funded under a different funding agency, scheme, or organisation?
They also need to consider the following questions before approving – or requesting – NDIS social supports within your plan. These are:
- Is the support directly related to your disability?
- Does it help you pursue goals outlined in your plan?
- Is it value for money?
- Is it effective and beneficial?
- Is it legal and safe?
- Is it something the NDIS expect to be provided by family, friends, and the community?
Assuming you meet the criteria outlined, you may be eligible to receive NDIS social supports under your plan.
What is covered by NDIS social supports?
NDIS social and recreation supports is a broad term used to include things such as visiting family and friends, playing sport or engaging in physical activities like bike-riding or skiing, going to the movies, a concert or to the museum, relaxation activities like yoga or meditation, and learning new skills.
Generally speaking, NDIS social supports for young adults – and anyone else under the NDIS – may cover things like:
- Specialised or modified equipment to help your participation in social activities
- Building social skills through workshops
- Support workers to assist with accessing the social or recreational activity of your choice
- Assistance to travel to the recreational or social activity (when other options aren’t available)
It does not include things that able-bodied people would be expected to pay for such as entry fees, standard equipment and uniforms, participation at an elite level, or supervision for young children where a parent or guardian would be expected to attend.
How can Greater Support Coordination assist with accessing NDIS social supports for young adults?
At Greater Support Coordination, we pride ourselves on being a leading service provider for young adults with an NDIS plan. We strive to assist you with accessing NDIS social supports as best we can.
In collaboration with your LAC, Greater Support Coordination can help simplify the application process by providing you with access to services and various resources as outlined within your NDIS plan. Once you’re approved to receive NDIS social supports, we have the resources to connect you with the services covered by the plan.
If you’re ready to access NDIS social supports, talk to our team today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What social supports can young NDIS participants access?
The NDIS funds social and community participation including group activities, supported recreation, social skills programs, and support worker assistance to attend events and outings.
Can the NDIS fund a support worker to come to a social event with me?
Yes. If social participation is in your NDIS plan, a support worker can accompany you to events, clubs, activities, or community outings that align with your goals.
Is there NDIS social support specifically for young adults?
Yes. Many providers run programs specifically for young adults with disability. Your support coordinator can help you find local options that suit your interests and goals.
