So……What is support coordination?
As quoted by the NDIS, there are three levels of support coordination that can be included in your plan:
Support connection
This support is to build your ability to connect with informal, community and funded supports enabling you to get the most out of your plan and achieve your goals, this service is most commonly provided to you by your Local Area Coordinator (LAC).
Level 2 – Support coordination
Coordination of supports: This support will assist you to build the skills you need to understand, implement and use your plan. A support coordinator will work with you to ensure a mix of supports are used to increase your capacity to maintain relationships, manage service delivery tasks, live more independently and be included in your community.
Level 3 – Specialist Support Coordination
This is a higher level of support coordination. It is for people whose situations are more complex and who need specialist support. A specialist Support Coordinator will assist you to manage challenges in your support environment and ensuring consistent delivery of service.
Depending on your individual goals, plan objectives and aspirations you may receive funding for these supports in your plan.
But….How can a Support Coordinator help me?
A Support Coordinator will support you to understand and implement the funded supports in your plan and link you to community, mainstream and other government services. A Support Coordinator will focus on supporting you to build skills and direct your life as well as connect you to providers.
A Support Coordinator will assist you to negotiate with providers about what they will offer you and how much it will cost out of your plan. Support coordinators will ensure service agreements and service bookings are completed. They will help build your ability to exercise choice and control, to coordinate supports and access your local community.
They can also assist you in planning ahead to prepare for your plan review.
Support coordinators will assist you to optimize your plan ensuring that you are getting the most out of your funded supports.