Your first NDIS plan meeting is a significant milestone on your journey. It’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. This meeting is your opportunity to share your story, your goals, and your aspirations. It’s the first step towards getting the support you need to live the life you choose.
At Liorn Support Services, we understand that this process can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this simple guide to help you understand what to expect, how to prepare, and how to walk into your meeting feeling confident and ready.
What is the Goal of the Meeting?
Think of your NDIS plan meeting not as a test, but as a conversation. The goal is for the NDIS representative (who might be a Local Area Coordinator or an NDIS Planner) to understand you, your life, and your disability.
They want to know:
- What are your goals and dreams?
- What does a typical day look like for you?
- What support do you currently have?
- What challenges do you face, and what support would help you overcome them?
This conversation is the foundation upon which your NDIS plan will be built. It’s all about creating a plan that is tailored specifically to you.
How to Prepare for Your Meeting
A little preparation can go a long way in making you feel more in control and ensuring you don’t forget anything important.
- Think About Your Goals: What do you want to achieve in the next 12 months? Your goals don't have to be huge. They can be anything from learning to cook a new meal or joining a local sports club, to increasing your independence at home or finding a job. Write them down!
- Gather Your Documents: Collect any reports or assessments from your doctors, therapists (like occupational therapists, speech pathologists, or psychologists), and other specialists. These documents provide important evidence of your disability and support needs.
- Consider Your Daily Life: Think about your average week. Where do you need help? This could be with personal care, transport, household chores, attending appointments, or participating in community activities. Be honest and detailed.
- Bring a Support Person: You don’t have to do this alone. Bringing a family member, trusted friend, or advocate can be incredibly helpful. They can provide emotional support, help you remember key points, and take notes for you.
What Happens During the Meeting?
The meeting is a structured conversation. Your NDIS representative will guide you through different topics, usually covering various life domains like home, health and wellbeing, lifelong learning, work, social and community participation, and choice and control.
Remember, this is your meeting. Don't be afraid to:
- Share Your Story: The more open you are, the better your planner can understand your needs.
- Ask Questions: If you don’t understand a term or a question, ask for clarification. There are no silly questions.
- Take Your Time: If you need a moment to think or a break, just say so. It’s important that you feel comfortable.
What to Expect After the Meeting
Once the meeting is over, the NDIS representative will take all the information you’ve provided and use it to develop your NDIS plan.
You can expect to receive your approved plan in the mail within a few weeks. When you get it, read through it carefully. Check that it reflects your conversation and includes the supports you need to pursue your goals.
If you believe something is missing or incorrect, you have the right to ask for a review.
You've Got This - And We're Here to Help
Your first NDIS plan meeting is a powerful and positive step forward. By preparing and knowing what to expect, you can ensure your voice is heard and that you get a plan that truly works for you.
Once your plan is approved, the exciting part begins – putting it into action! At Liorn Support Services, we specialise in helping NDIS participants connect with the right supports to bring their goals to life. If you have questions about your new plan or want to learn more about how we can help, our friendly team is always here for a chat.