As a participant in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), community access is an important aspect of your plan. Community access refers to the opportunities for you to participate in social and recreational activities, events, and programs in your community that are accessible and inclusive. This can include access to transport, assistance with booking and attending events, as well as support to participate in activities that meet your goals and interests. In this blog post, we’ll provide an overview of community access, the types of support available, and how to access them.
Understanding community access support
Community access support is designed to increase your participation in activities and events that promote social inclusion and connection. This can include access to transport, assistance with booking and attending events, and support to participate in activities that meet your goals and interests. As a participant in the NDIS, you may be eligible for funding for community access support, which can be included in your NDIS plan.
Types of community access support
There are different types of community access services available, based on your individual needs and goals. These can include:
-Transport: Assistance with transport to and from activities and events.
-Social and Recreational Activities: Support participation in activities that promote social inclusion and connection, such as sporting events or hobby groups.
-Skill Development: Assistance with developing skills that promote independence and participation in the community, such as travel training or communication skills.
-Community Participation: Support to engage with and participate in activities or events that interest you, such as art or music classes.
Accessing community access support
To access community access support through the NDIS, you will need to include it in your plan. Your plan will outline the types of support you are eligible for, how much funding you receive, and how often. Once your plan is approved, you can work with your support coordinator or service provider to develop a schedule of activities and events that meet your goals and interests. You may also need to book transport or access other types of support, such as assistive technology or personal care.
Choosing the right service provider
Choosing the right service provider for your community access support is important in ensuring that your needs are met and that you receive quality support. When selecting a service provider, consider their reputation, qualifications, and experience working with people with disabilities. You may also want to ask for references from other participants or family members, and check whether the provider is registered with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
Getting the most out of your community access support
To get the most out of your community access support, it’s important to communicate your goals and interests with your support coordinator or service provider. This will help them to tailor your support to meet your needs and ensure that you are participating in activities and events that you enjoy. You may also want to keep a schedule of activities and appointments and share this with your support coordinator or service provider.
In conclusion, Community access services can increase your participation in social and recreational activities, events, and programs in your community. Understanding the types of support available, how to access them, and how to choose the right service provider can help you make the most of your NDIS plan. Remember to communicate your goals and interests with your support coordinator or service provider, and keep a schedule of activities and appointments to stay organised and engaged. With the right support, you can access the activities and events that create connections and foster social inclusion in your community.