Navigating the NDIS can sometimes feel overwhelming, and one of the areas we often get questions about is 'Community Access'. You might see it in your plan as 'Assistance with Social, Economic and Community Participation', but what does that actually mean? What can you do with that funding?
At Liorn Support Services, we believe that community is for everyone. It’s about connection, growth, and living a full, vibrant life. Your NDIS funding is a key to unlocking that. Let's gently unpack what community access is all about and explore the exciting possibilities it holds for you.
What's the Real Goal of Community Access?
First, it's important to understand the 'why' behind this funding. Community access isn't just about filling your time; it's a purposeful part of your NDIS plan designed to help you achieve your personal goals.
These goals are unique to you, but they often revolve around:
- Building Independence: Learning new skills like using public transport, managing a budget at the shops, or ordering a coffee on your own.
- Making Connections: Reducing isolation by meeting new people, making friends, and building a support network outside your home.
- Improving Wellbeing: Boosting your physical and mental health by getting active, joining a class, or engaging in a hobby you love.
- Learning and Growing: Exploring new interests, volunteering, or even taking the first steps towards finding a job.
Every activity you do using this funding should be a step, big or small, towards one of the goals in your NDIS plan.
So, What Activities Are Actually Possible?
This is the exciting part! The options are as varied as you are. As long as an activity helps you work towards your goals and meets the NDIS criteria, it’s likely to be approved.
Think about what you love, what you've always wanted to try, and what would make a positive difference in your life. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:
- Creative & Learning: Attend a local pottery class, join a library book club, take a cooking course, or visit a museum or art gallery.
- Social & Fun: Go to the movies, see a concert or a play, join a board game group, attend a local festival, or cheer on your favourite team at a sporting event.
- Health & Fitness: Join a gym, take a yoga or swimming class, join a walking group, or learn to play a new sport.
- Life Skills: Go grocery shopping with your support worker, learn to navigate the local community centre, or practice catching the bus or train to a new place.
Remember, this is not an exhaustive list. The best activity is one that genuinely excites you and aligns with your personal goals.
A Key Question: What Does the NDIS Actually Pay For?
This is where things can sometimes get confusing, but the rule is quite simple. The NDIS funds the reasonable and necessary supports you need to participate in an activity, but not the activity itself if it’s an everyday cost that everyone would have to pay.
Let’s use a simple example: Going to the movies.
- What your NDIS funding can cover: The cost of your Liorn Support Worker to come with you, assist you with transport, help you buy your tickets, and ensure you are safe and supported throughout the outing.
- What it generally doesn't cover: The cost of your movie ticket and your support worker's ticket. These are considered general living expenses, as anyone going to the movies has to buy a ticket for themselves and anyone accompanying them.
So, the NDIS pays for the support to get you there and participate, while you would pay for the entry fee or activity cost just like anyone else.
How We Can Help You Get Started
Feeling inspired? We hope so! Your community is full of amazing opportunities, and you deserve to be a part of it. The team at Liorn Support Services is here to be your partner on this journey.
We can help you:
- Understand your NDIS plan and identify your community participation goals.
- Brainstorm creative activities that match your interests and passions.
- Connect you with a wonderful Support Worker who can champion and assist you.
- Plan the logistics to make your community outings smooth, safe, and enjoyable.
Don't let confusion hold you back from living the life you choose. Reach out to us today, and let's talk about how we can help you unlock your world.