Your NDIS Plan has been cut? Self-Management may be your best move, here's why

I believe “self management” was supposed to mean that I was to do everything by myself.

This is among the most frequently heard phrases.

That makes sense and it's perfectly understandable.

The term self-management is daunting to many participants. They see so much paperwork, so many complex invoices and themselves having to figure it all out.

In reality, that is not often the case.

Many participants start at the point of change relating to self-management. Maybe they have seen a decrease in funding. Perhaps they're struggling to receive the assistance they require. Or maybe they just want to have a greater voice in who supports them and what they get funded for.

What they find is that self-management isn't about more.

It is a matter of choice.

These are 5 reasons why more participants are turning towards the path of self-management.

1. More options for who supports you

Rather than being limited to registered providers, many self-managed participants have the flexibility of accessing experienced independent support workers who meet their goals, personality and lifestyle.

Great support is more than just a qualification.

It's about finding someone that you can trust.

A person who has knowledge about your habits, speaks your language and is genuinely interested in helping you achieve whatever it is you want.

2. Your funding may go further

Many of the participants are surprised that flexibility can sometimes lead to better utilisation of the funding.

That's because, with self-management, there is more control over how supports are arranged.

This could be for some participants being able to access experienced independent support workers, whilst still getting high quality support.

While each individual is unique, it is important to be aware of the operation of self-management before you assume that a lower plan equates with less support.

3. You're in control

Self-management will help you to take more control of your own support.

You have the choice of who supports you.

When they support you.

How your lifestyle fits in with those supports.

That flexibility can mean a more personalised experience for many participants, and supports can change as participants' goals change.

4. You're not doing it alone

The common myth of self management is that you have to do everything on your own.

You're not.

Self-management isn't as difficult as people imagine, with the help of experienced organisations, support professionals and digital tools.

It's about knowing what supports are available and selecting the one you are confident and comfortable with.

5. It's worth understanding before you decide

Before you decide to take action, it's important to understand the situation. Self-management isn't the right choice for everyone. Neither is plan management. Nor is NDIA management. The best option is one that suits you. That is why it is essential to know about each option. Informed decision making will always make you feel more confident than assuming.

But is Self-Management for All?

No.

Each participant is unique and has their own needs, goals and circumstances.

The flexibility that self-management offers is valued by some.

Others choose plan management or NDIA management for their convenience.

There isn't a “best” option.

But there is just one option that's right for you.

At a glance: what options for managing an NDIS plan are available?

Which choice is best for you?

There is no “best” way to manage your NDIS plan.

This will depend on your objectives, confidence, lifestyle and desired level of involvement for managing your supports.

It is important to know the differences so you can make an informed choice.

Where Support Network can help

Participants call us at Support Network every day who have an interest in self-management but aren't sure where to begin, and that is why we created this blog post.

Our job isn't to convince you.

It's to let you know what you have available.

We will respond to your questions, discuss the various management types and, if it is a good option for you, introduce you to experienced independent support workers who can match your goals and lifestyle.

Because informed participants are confident decision makers.

Support Network Tip

Understanding self-management doesn't mean you have to change now.

It just provides you with an alternative to think about when things change in the future.

The more you know about your options, the easier it will be for you to decide on your support.

Your next step

If you've ever considered self-management as an alternative to other management methods, consider learning about the various management options and exploring what is important to you.

The better informed you are, the easier you will find it to make decisions that will assist you to achieve your goals.

We're here to help you discuss your choices.

Getting ready to explore self-management?

Schedule a free, no-strings-attached meeting with the Support Network team.

We will respond to your questions, describe your options and assist you in determining if self-management is suitable for you.

No pressure.

No obligation.

Practical advice from people who genuinely want to help.

→  Register to receive the appropriate support, it works for you!