”If you don't have Support Coordination in your NDIS plan, you can still get help from a Focal Support Coordinator.
If you don’t have Support Coordination in your NDIS plan, you can still get help from a Focal Support Coordinator by having a Support Coordination Package service agreement drawn up to come out of your Core or Capacity Building funding. Today I will explain a little about support coordination and how a Support Coordination Package could help you.
Understanding Support Coordination
Support coordination is a service funded under the NDIS to help participants make the most of their plans. A support coordinator can assist with:
- Engaging with service providers
- Ensuring service agreements fit within your budget
- Monitoring your funding regularly
- Gathering reports and evidence
- Applying for disability housing
- Building your capacity to navigate the NDIS
- Support coordination is funded as a separate item under the Capacity Building budget in your plan.
Accessing Support Coordination Without Specific Funding
If your plan does not include specific funding for support coordination, you can still access these services by reallocating funds from other parts of your budget:
Core Budget: Funds allocated here can sometimes be used flexibly to support your needs.
Capacity Building Budget: You can use these funds to create a “support coordination package.”
Creating a Support Coordination Package
A support coordination package works like a service agreement with a provider, where you allocate a certain number of hours for support coordination services. This package is typically short-term, depending on the level of support required.
During the agreement, the support coordinator can:
- Help with engaging and managing service providers
- Monitor and track your funding
- Assist in gathering necessary reports and evidence for NDIS
- Help you apply for an NDIS plan review to request more suitable funding
- Request for support coordination to be added to your plan for ongoing assistance
- Getting More Information
For more information
If you want to utilise your existing budget to create a support coordination package and access the assistance you need, without the need for extra NDIS funding, reach out to Focal. By speaking with one of our friendly support coordinators you will receive personalised advice to help you navigate your options effectively.
Written by: Scott Thomson
Support Coordinator
Scott brings years of experience working within disability services to his current role as a support coordinator. Having worked within multiple disability service organisations, Scott has a thorough understanding of what makes a positive experience for participants under the NDIS and is excited to support participants in a much more hands-on way.
