When your NDIS funding is reduced, here are 5 steps to take

Few things are more uncomfortable than when you open your new NDIS plan and see that your funding has altered.

For many people, it's not the numbers that cause the greatest concern. It's what those numbers could mean.

‘Will I still have my support worker that I know and trust?’

‘Will I need to leave behind the habits I developed for gaining independence?’

‘What happens now?’

These are just some of the questions that have crossed the minds of many in the recent past.

Having a reduced NDIS plan doesn't necessarily mean you need to have fewer supports. In many cases, it is better to determine what has changed, and what options are available, before making decisions. Here are 5 simple steps to help you get the ball rolling.

Take time for a pause before making changes.

First instinct after a funding cut is to immediately eliminate or limit supports. Take some time for yourself first. No decision has to be made now, and prematurely cancelling the wrong support can be a setback that will take months to recover from.

Be able to identify the change.

Compare each line of your past plan with the current plan. For each funding type (Core, Capacity Building and Capital), indicate where the numbers changed. A plan can be the same overall size but look very different in shape, or be more flexible in one dimension than previously.

Defend what's most important to you. 

Consider the supports that are most important for your independence, health and quality of life. If adjustments are necessary, knowing your priorities aids one in making sound decisions, so that the supports that are most important are protected.

Explore your options. 

Consult trusted professionals, your Support Coordinator or Local Area Coordinator. Learn about reassessment routes as appropriate and understand the various routes for delivering support, including self-management where appropriate. Collecting evidence (including allied health reports or a GP report) can help.

Remember your goals haven't changed. 

Your goals, your independence and wellbeing are just as important, though funding can change. There are usually more opportunities than you think with the proper information and support team.

Your plan has been updated. Your potential hasn't.

With Support Network you can find out what you have the choice of and meet with qualified independent support workers, nurses and caring professionals all over Australia. We enable individuals to create support teams that reflect who they are, not just what's in their plan.

→  Register to get the right support, that works for you!