The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is built on the principle of choice and control. You are in the driver's seat of your journey, and that includes choosing the right team to support you. Making the decision to partner with an NDIS provider is a significant one, and it’s just as important to regularly ask yourself: "Is this still the right fit for me?"
Feeling unsure about your current provider can be stressful, but you are not alone, and you absolutely have the right to seek support that genuinely helps you thrive. If you're in Brisbane and have a nagging feeling that something isn't quite right, this guide is for you. Here are five signs that your NDIS provider may not be delivering the quality of service you deserve.
1. Communication is Lacking or Unclear
Effective communication is the foundation of any good relationship. Do you find yourself constantly chasing up your provider? Are your calls or emails going unanswered for days? Perhaps you feel like you’re not being listened to during conversations, or that important information isn’t being passed on to your support workers.
If you feel out of the loop, unheard, or constantly frustrated by a lack of clear and timely communication, it’s a major red flag. You deserve a provider who is a proactive and responsive partner in your journey.
2. Support is Inconsistent and Unreliable
Consistency is key to building trust and working towards your goals. If your support workers are frequently late, cancel at the last minute, or you’re seeing a constant rotation of new faces without proper introduction, it disrupts your routine and can be incredibly unsettling.
Unreliable support makes it difficult to plan your life and can hinder your progress. Your provider should deliver dependable, high-quality support that you can count on, allowing you to focus on what truly matters.
3. Your Goals Aren't a Priority
Your NDIS plan is built around your aspirations. A great provider will work with you to understand your goals, break them down into achievable steps, and regularly review your progress.
If you feel like your support is just about 'ticking boxes' rather than actively helping you build skills, engage with your community, or move towards independence, it might be time for a change. You should feel that your provider is just as invested in your success as you are.
4. The Service Feels Impersonal
Every NDIS participant is unique, with individual needs, preferences, and ways of communicating. Does your support feel like a 'one-size-fits-all' solution? Do you feel like just a client number instead of a valued individual?
A provider who takes the time to get to know you, respect your choices, and tailor their services to your specific circumstances is essential. The right support should feel collaborative and personalised, empowering you to live life on your terms.
5. You Simply Don't Feel Respected or Comfortable
This is perhaps the most important sign of all. You should always feel safe, respected, and valued by your support team. If you feel dismissed, uncomfortable raising concerns, or that your dignity is not being upheld, you should never have to tolerate it.
The relationship between you and your provider is a partnership built on trust. If that trust is broken or was never there to begin with, you have every right to find a provider who will treat you with the kindness and respect you deserve.
What to Do If It's Time for a Change
Recognising these signs is the first step. Your next step doesn't have to be overwhelming. You can start by trying to raise your concerns with your current provider’s management. If things don't improve, remember that you are in control.
Switching providers is a straightforward process, and a good provider will be happy to guide you through it. It typically involves reviewing your service agreement, providing the required notice period, and signing on with a new team that's a better fit.
At Liorn Support Services, we believe that NDIS support should be empowering, respectful, and completely focused on you. We are dedicated to building genuine partnerships with our Brisbane participants, ensuring you feel heard, valued, and supported every step of the way.
If you’re considering a switch or just want to chat about what exceptional NDIS support looks like, please reach out. We're here for a friendly, no-obligation conversation to help you find the right path forward.