There is a wide range of disability support services funded by the NDIS depending on individual needs. The actual services can involve everything from transportation to assistive technology, but a simpler way to break them down is by their funding categories. In terms of budgeting, NDIS funds are allocated in three categories:
- Core Supports
- Capacity Building
- Capital Support
Funding is allocated on a needs-basis, ensuring that individuals get the tailored support they need to live their best life on their own terms. Whether it’s assistance getting to medical appointments or Supported Independent Living (SIL), everybody needs something different, and the NDIS recognises that through its funding model.
In this article, we’ll explore the extensive services that can be accessed through the NDIS.
Core supports
In simple terms, the core supports are the ones deemed to be the most essential for the majority of participants. Of course, every person’s needs are different, so certain supports will apply to some people and not others. While there are four general categories of support below, the core supports budget is also flexible, allowing participants greater control over how the budget is divided.
Consumables
Your core supports budget includes funding for low-cost items you need due to your disability. This could include continence products, adapted utensils and more. Generally, this refers to disposable everyday items.
This doesn’t include funding for food, medicine, cosmetics, or general toiletries.
Daily activities
Your daily activities budget includes funding for the assistance you need to take care of yourself. These supports are more personal, such as assistance with bathing, eating, grooming and toileting. Mobility support, such as exercise, is also included. If participants require 24/7 or overnight care, this also comes from the core supports budget.
Other help around the home such as ironing, laundry, meal preparation, gardening and cleaning can also come from the core supports budget.
Community participation
The benefits of people with disabilities getting out in the community can’t be understated. That’s why funding for community activities appears in the core supports and the Capacity Building budget we’ll discuss later. In terms of core support, it is designed to fund the assistance you need to participate in the community. Whether that be assistance when meeting up with friends, attending a class, volunteering, or engaging in any other recreational activities, NDIS provides the necessary help.
Transport
NDIS also provides transport support if you’re unable to use public transport due to your disability. This may be in the form of a carer accompanying you to medical appointments and other community activities, or other suitable methods of transport.
Capacity building
While the Core Supports category is all about providing essential daily assistance, the Capacity Building category focuses on helping people with disabilities expand their horizons, develop skills and get out in the community.
This can involve a number of things, such as:
- Assistance in finding employment
- Career planning
- Programs and activities to build skills
- Learning to drive
- Support coordination
This list is certainly not exhaustive, but it demonstrates there are plenty of NDIS-funded activities to help people with disabilities live on their own terms and continue developing their capabilities. If a Support Coordinator is required, this comes from the Capacity Building budget.
Capital support
Finally, the Capital Support budget provides participants with funding for support such as home modifications or assistive technology required as a result of their disability. This can include certain vehicle modifications and other mobility support, such as wheelchairs. Assistive technology for communication falls into this category.
Whether it’s adjusting your home with ramps or rails for easier access, or altering your car to provide more independence, NDIS offers support. Specialist Disability Accommodation can also be accessed through the capital support budget.
It’s important to remember that NDIS funding for disability support services is very needs-oriented. So, if you feel you’re not getting the support you need, speak to your service provider or plan manager about your options.