What is Supported Independent Living?

 Supported Independent Living SIL helps people move out of their parents’ homes, which can help them gain independence and align with their capacity-building Plan goals. The customised support offered by SIL can also promote personal development and foster community integration.

SIL funding covers the cost of support workers, but it doesn’t cover living expenses such as rent and groceries. Indicators that your loved one may be ready for SIL include a desire to live independently and interest in shared living arrangements.

Empowerment

SIL is tailored to each individual’s needs, ensuring that assistance empowers people rather than taking over their lives. This approach helps foster self-reliance and encourages a sense of autonomy, while also allowing participants to learn new skills.

Often, SIL participants live in specialised housing or apartments that are located close to their family and friends. This allows them to participate in community groups and events, fostering social interaction and a sense of belonging.

Once eligible, individuals work with an NDIS planner or support coordinator to develop a personalised SIL plan. This includes an assessment of their goals and how SIL can help them achieve them. This assessment is reviewed and adjusted regularly to meet changing needs. The personalised plan also outlines the type and frequency of support required.

Self-reliance

SIL helps participants build confidence and capability by providing tailored assistance in the comfort of their own homes. This includes meal preparation, shopping for groceries, personal hygiene, and transport to help individuals navigate their day-to-day activities.

Individuals in SIL arrangements often work with their support workers to set personal goals that encourage growth and achievement. This sense of accomplishment fosters a greater sense of wellbeing and self-reliance.

Those interested in SIL should consult with their Support Coordinator to ensure that they have the right documentation and evidence of eligibility for this option. This will usually include an in-depth needs assessment and professional reports that clearly demonstrate their functional capacity, housing-related goals, and need for daily support. SIL is typically funded through the NDIS Core Supports, and doesn’t cover the cost of accommodation.

Learning new skills

SIL provides individuals with the opportunity to learn new skills that can help them become more independent. This can include cooking, cleaning, managing finances, and using public transport. These skills are taught in a practical way, which encourages self-reliance and reduces dependency on family members or carers.

Individuals in SIL arrangements also develop stronger communication skills that allow them to express their needs and feelings. This can help them feel confident in social situations and develop meaningful relationships.

In addition, individuals in SIL are encouraged to participate in community activities. This can include volunteering, joining clubs or interest groups, and attending local events. These activities cultivate a sense of independence and boost self-belief. They can also improve their mental and physical health. This can be accomplished by promoting healthy diets, increasing physical activity, and establishing good routines.

Adaptability

SIL allows individuals to live in a community that enhances their quality of life while providing them with the necessary support. It fosters social engagement and creates a sense of belonging, reducing loneliness and isolation. It also encourages self-reliance, allowing participants to learn skills for day-to-day tasks like cooking and budgeting.

SIL is highly individualized and can be changed as the participant needs it. It provides a safe and secure living environment with round-the-clock care. Moreover, it helps build independence and aligns with the capacity-building plan goals of the NDIS. Using NDIS software, such as ShiftCare, can streamline SIL management. It offers a flexible scheduling tool that takes into account the participant’s availability, including overnight shifts. It also simplifies claiming, with options for weekly and hourly billing.

Community integration

The NDIS places a strong emphasis on giving participants choice and control over their support arrangements, and this extends to housing options. Many participants choose to live in shared accommodation with other people with a disability, which helps foster social connections and provide a sense of belonging. They can also opt for a home with onsite support, providing a balance between independence and access to help at any time of the day or night.

Community engagement is the backbone of truly meaningful independent living for individuals with disabilities. It enables them to cultivate a sense of independence and self-belief through meaningful participation in community activities.

By combining independence and personalised support with community integration, SIL services transform the concept of inclusion from an abstract ideal into an everyday reality.