Is Supported Independent Living Right for Me?

Is Supported Independent Living Right for Me?

As a NDIS participant, you might be considering Supported Independent Living (SIL) to access assistance to develop skills that will increase your independence. Here we discuss more about SIL, what it includes, and whether it might be a good choice for you.

What Is Supported Independent Living?

Under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Supported Independent Living (SIL) is available to participants who require assistance with aspects of their daily life, providing support that develops skills and independence whilst living in the community.

You can receive supported independent living if you live with other NDIS participants. You can also receive supported independent living if you live alone, however there may be other living and home supports that would suit you better.

What is included in Supported Independent Living Funding?

SIL funding covers the cost of paid supports that people need to learn new skills and become more independent. This includes funding for support workers to assist with, and supervise, activities like:

• Personal care such as showering, dressing, and grooming.  
• Grocery shopping
• Meal preparation and eating meals.
• Medication management
• Travel assistance to and from appointments.
• Support for budgeting and managing finances.
• Developing communication and social skills
• Accessing community and social experiences

SIL funding cannot be used for living expenses such as groceries or rent.

Is Supported Independent Living Right for Me?

Supported Independent Living may be right for you if your goal is to become more independent in accommodation, whilst still accessing supports every day. For instance, if living alone and unsupported is unsuitable due to your disability, living in a supported shared arrangement may be better suited to your needs, and enable a higher quality of life.

SIL is best suited for participants with higher support needs, who require some level of help at home every day. This means you need significant assistance at home throughout the day, every day, and includes overnight support.

How Do I Apply for Supported Independent Living?

Supported Independent Living needs to be planned and approved as part of your NDIS funding plan. This involves working with a National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) planner and local NDIS coordinator to identify if supported living is appropriate for you. Your Support Coordinator can assist you in this process.

Together, you and your service provider will determine what you need help with, when you need it, and then create a roster of care. Your roster of care will outline your different support requirements, and how and when they will be provided, usually in half hour blocks. The roster will also set out the type and ratio of support and the pricing. Once approved by the NDIS, you can then engage a service provider.

Supported Independent Living Service Providers

Once your funding has been approved, you can choose and work with a SIL service provider.

There are many supported independent living providers in Brisbane, who can help you to gain skills and increase your independence.

Experienced and caring Brisbane Supported Independent Living providers such as swara can assist you to live independently, create a place that feels like home, and live the life you choose. We’d love for you to contact our friendly swara team to discuss how we can support you.