May 14, 2024
NDIS Tips
The Role of Social Networks in Community Involvement
Did you know the NDIS helps people with disabilities join in social and community activities?
Social and community participation is a powerful way to form meaningful connections, engage in enjoyable activities, and enrich our lives. Recognizing its significance, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides support for individuals with disabilities to partake in these activities.
If you’re unsure about how to utilize your community participation funding, our compassionate team at Abled Care Service is here to guide you.
Understanding Social & Community Participation
Social and community participation might sound complex, but it’s quite straightforward. It’s about connecting with individuals who share your interests and participating in activities that bring you happiness. It’s about mingling with like-minded people, indulging in your favorite pastimes, and engaging with your local community. The beauty of it is, you get to choose activities that you enjoy!
NDIS and Increased Social & Community Participation
The NDIS’s Increased Social and Community Participation is designed to assist individuals with disabilities to engage in social and community activities beyond their usual routine or essential needs. It encompasses a broad range of activities, such as attending a camp or starting dance lessons, with the aim of empowering individuals to enhance their independence, acquire new skills, and improve their overall wellbeing.
Capacity Building vs Core Support
Two types of support budgets can assist you in participating in your community:
Core Supports
Core Supports cover the ongoing assistance you may need to participate in your community.
Capacity Building
Capacity Building, where ‘Increased Social and Community Participation’ support comes in, focuses on developing new skills for greater independence and confidence.
Core supports assist with daily needs, while capacity building supports focus on long-term goals and independence. Your NDIS plan may combine both to suit your needs.
60+ Expert Carers
Dedicated souls who love to care.
What Does the Funding Cover?
There are a wide variety of ways you can use your funding to increase social and community participation. You may use it to learn a new skill, explore a new hobby, or even volunteer for a cause you’re passionate about.
Camping and vacation trips
Lessons for new skills
Life skills training
Social or communication skills classes
Membership fees for sports teams
Volunteering in the community
What Doesn’t the Funding Cover?
While Capacity Building funding can help build skills, there are limitations to its use. For instance, it may cover basketball lessons but not the cost of a sports uniform.
Non-disability-related medical or healthcare costs
Rent, utilities, and groceries
Toiletries and clothing
Non-disability-related equipment or technology
Leisure activities not for skill-building or community participation
Non-disability-related travel or transportation expenses
60+ Expert Carers
Dedicated souls who love to care.
Securing Funding for Increased Social & Community Participation
If you’re new to the NDIS or getting ready for a plan review, consult with your Local Area Coordinator, Support Coordinator, or the NDIS regarding Increased Social and Community Participation funding. They’ll assist you in determining if your desired services and supports are necessary, reasonable, and aligned with your goals.
Keep in mind: Capacity Building offers less flexibility compared to Core Supports. It’s typically linked to specific service providers, programs, or interventions aimed at achieving measurable outcomes and building sustainable skills and capabilities. Therefore, it’s crucial to utilize Increased Social and Community Participation funding appropriately.
Increase social and community participation with Abled Care Service
Did you know that Abled Care Service specializes in social and community participation? That’s why we call our support workers “Social Carers”! Our Social Carers can assist you in building skills, getting out and about, preparing meals, improving health and wellbeing, and much more. If you’re interested in learning more, visit our website or contact our friendly team at contact@abledcareservice.com.au.
