Your first NDIS plan meeting is your opportunity to discuss your needs, goals, and aspirations with a Local Area Coordinator, NDIS planner, or Early Childhood Early Intervention partner. This guide will help you prepare effectively for this important meeting.
Before Your Meeting: Essential Preparation
- Gather relevant reports and assessments from your healthcare providers
- Think about your short-term and long-term goals
- Consider what supports you currently have and what additional supports you need
Setting Clear Goals
Your goals are a crucial part of your NDIS plan. These might be anything from improving physical fitness, to finding a job, to learning new skills. Be prepared to articulate how the supports you're requesting will help you achieve these objectives.
- List short-term and long-term goals
- Consider goals related to daily living, community participation, employment, and skill development
- Be specific about how each support will help you reach your goals
Understanding Your Rights
Arming yourself with knowledge is a key step to a successful NDIS plan meeting. This means understanding your rights and knowing that the meeting is a collaborative process. You can have a support person present, and if you're not comfortable with anything discussed during the meeting, you're within your rights to voice your concerns.
Reasonable and Necessary Supports
- Transport to enable participation in community activities
- Therapeutic supports like occupational therapy
- Home modifications for safe and easier living
NDIS Plan Management Options
Another important aspect is understanding the difference between NDIS plan management options. You can choose how your funding is managed based on your preferences and needs.
- Self-managed: You manage your funds, which provides the most flexibility but requires more administrative work
- NDIA-managed: The NDIA manages your funds and you can only use registered providers
- Plan-managed: A third-party provider takes care of the financial and administrative aspects of your plan
Your Personalized NDIS Journey
Remember, there is no 'one-size-fits-all' when it comes to NDIS plans. The plan should be as unique as the individual it is supporting, and the first plan meeting is a vital step in carving out that personalised pathway. While this may seem like a lot to prepare for, you're not alone. There are resources and people who can help you prepare for your plan meeting.