Supported Independent Living: An Overview for a Newly Disabled Person

Supported independent living (SIL) is a type of assistance that helps disabled people in Australia live as independently as possible in their own homes or community. The goal of SIL is to provide support with daily tasks and activities, while also promoting independence, autonomy, and participation in the community.

In Australia, SIL is funded and coordinated by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The NDIS is a government-run program that provides support and funding for disabled individuals to help them achieve their goals and live more independently. To be eligible for SIL through the NDIS, an individual must meet certain criteria, including having a permanent and significant disability that affects their ability to communicate, move or care for themselves.

If you are recently disabled, the concept will likely be new to you and the process can be intimidating to navigate. Read on for more information about SIL and the potential benefits it could have for your life.

• Personal care and support: This includes assistance with tasks such as bathing, dressing, and grooming, as well as medication management and other health-related needs.
• Domestic assistance: This includes help with household chores such as cleaning, laundry, and grocery shopping.
• Social and community participation: This includes support to participate in activities and events in the community, such as joining a sports team or attending cultural events.
• Transport: This includes assistance with getting to appointments, activities, and events.
• Assistive technology: This includes equipment and devices that can help disabled individuals live more independently, such as wheelchairs, mobility scooters and adapted computer equipment.
• Home modifications: This includes modifications to the home to make it more accessible and easier to navigate, such as installing ramps or handrails.

Maintaining Your Independence

SIL services are typically provided by trained and qualified support workers, who work closely with the disabled individual to develop a personalised plan that meets their specific needs and goals. The level and type of support provided will vary depending on the individual's needs and preferences.

One of the benefits of SIL is that it allows disabled individuals to live in their own homes, rather than in a group home or institution. This can help promote a greater sense of independence and control over one's own life. SIL can also help disabled individuals participate more fully in their communities and build connections with others.

Key Organisations to Contact

There are several organisations and agencies in Australia that can provide information and assistance with SIL, including Disability Services Standards, the Australian Disability Clearinghouse on Education and Training, and the National Disability Services (NDS). These organisations can provide information on available SIL services, as well as help individuals apply for and access SIL funding through the NDIS.

If you have recently become disabled, SIL can help you to live as independently as possible and fully participate in your community. With the right support and resources, you will find it much easier to navigate this difficult transition.