NDIS Shared Accommodation: A Supportive Community Living Option

Living independently is a goal for many people with disabilities, but it can need the right support. Shared Accommodation is a great option for people who want to live in a safe, supportive place while still being independent. It helps with socialising, practical support, or just a safer home.

In this blog, we’ll explain what NDIS Shared Accommodation is, the benefits, and how to get it.

What is NDIS Shared Accommodation?

NDIS Shared Accommodation is a shared living space for people with disabilities, where participants live in a group setting but maintain their own private rooms. The shared areas, such as the kitchen and bathroom, are used by all residents. This type of NDIS Shared Accommodation creates a supportive environment, allowing individuals to live with others who understand their needs. Support workers assist with personal care and everyday tasks, ensuring residents can live as independently as possible while having the help they need.

Types of NDIS Shared Accommodation

There are several types of this service, each designed to meet different levels of care and support needs:

1. Group Homes
2. Group homes are for 3-6 people with disabilities. People share the house and help with things like cooking and cleaning. A support worker is there to help with daily tasks like personal care and going out.
3. Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
4. SDA homes are made for people with higher support needs or physical disabilities. They have special features like wheelchair ramps and assistive technology to help people live more independently. SDA homes can be shared or have separate units in the same building.
5. Independent Living Units (ILUs)
6. ILUs give people their own private homes but with shared spaces like gardens and kitchens. Support workers are there to help when needed, but the focus is on helping people live as independently as possible.

Benefits of NDIS-Supported Shared Living

It has many benefits for people with disabilities:

1. Make Friends and Be Part of a Community: Living with others helps people make friends and feel less lonely. You can join activities and support each other.
2. Help Anytime: Support workers are available 24/7 to help with personal care, medicine, and daily tasks. You always have someone there if you need help.
3. Learn New Skills: Shared accommodation helps people learn important skills like cooking, cleaning, and taking care of themselves. This helps people become more independent.
4. Save Money: Sharing a home makes it cheaper. You share the cost of rent, bills, and other expenses. NDIS funding can also help with these costs.
5. Join in Activities: Support workers help people go out and join community activities. This keeps people active and connected with others.

How to Access NDIS-Supported Group Accommodation

To get this service, you need to have an NDIS plan that includes funding for accommodation support. This could be under Supported Independent Living (SIL) or Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA).

Here’s how to get started:

1. Check Your NDIS Plan: Look at your NDIS plan to see if it has funding for shared accommodation. If you’re not sure, ask your NDIS support coordinator to help.
2. Pick a Provider: Find NDIS providers who offer shared accommodation. Make sure they offer the type of accommodation you need.
3. Visit Accommodation Options: Once you find some options, visit them to see if the place feels right for you.
4. Set Up Support Services: Work with the provider to make sure you have the support you need, like help with daily tasks or personal care.
5. Move In and Settle In: After everything is ready, you can move in. Support workers will help you settle into your new home and routine.

This service is there to help you feel safe, supported, and part of a community.

Conclusion

NDIS Shared Accommodation is a good choice for people with disabilities who want to live in a safe place with help when needed. It helps people make friends, be more independent, and get support. There are different types of places to choose from, like group homes or independent living units.

If you or someone you know is thinking about this service, ask your NDIS support coordinator to help find the best option. With the right support, shared accommodation can help people with disabilities live happy and independent lives.