Looking for a support coordinator? Read through our list of some of Wollongong’s best. Photo: Anna Stills.
It goes without saying that the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a complicated, bureaucratic system, which can be difficult to navigate when looking for the services you need. Understanding the jargon, figuring out what you qualify for and finding the services that best suit you and your needs can be a hard thing. That’s where support coordinators come in.
In this article, we will explain what a good support coordinator will do for you, the factors to consider when choosing a support coordinator and where to find the best ones across the Wollongong area.
What does a support coordinator do?
Support coordinators work with you to build an NDIS plan, this means finding the services that suit you and your particular disability. Note that a support coordinator is distinct from a local area coordination (LAC) partner. The main difference being the source of funding between the two. While support coordination is funded through an NDIS plan, a LAC is not. Not everyone receives funding for a support coordinator.
An NDIS plan can include three levels of support coordination:
- Support coordination
- Support connection
- Specialist coordination
An NDIS user may receive funding for one of these supports depending on individual goals and requirements.
What to consider when choosing a support coordination provider
NDIS users can find a registered support coordination provider on the NDIS website.
There are quite a few support coordinators in Wollongong to choose from and it can be hard at times to know where to start. It’s useful to remember that you can always change your coordinator if you so wish. The critical thing is finding a coordinator who works well with you, this means knowing your needs and understanding who you are as a person. Because they will be your first point of contact regarding NDIS information and support, it is vital that you choose a coordinator who puts in the work for you.
Qualities to consider include:
- Rapport. It is important that you feel comfortable with your support coordinator and that you feel you can ask them questions about NDIS funding and your NDIS plan. Your comfort with your coordinator is vital to being able to communicate your needs.
- Communication skills. A good coordinator will help you understand your funding and manage your budget. Given the complexity of the NDIS system, it’s important that they are able to explain your NDIS plan in a way you can understand practically. A coordinator should be guided by your needs and goals, with a central focus on you.
- Experience in the disability sector. The best support coordinators have experience and connections in the field of disability support. They should be able to connect you with providers that suit your particular needs. Experience in the sector means that they will be able to navigate the complicated world of the NDIS more easily and they will have a network of providers to rely on.
- Ability to connect to multiple organisations. Every plan is different, as every NDIS user’s needs are different. A coordinator should be able to connect you with multiple organisations to meet your needs. If a particular service is not for you, a great coordinator will be able to find you an alternative.
- A team approach. A coordinator should be more than just one person, it should be a team that works collaboratively with each other and with you to find solutions. They should work with you throughout the process of finding support, consulting with you and making decisions in tandem with you rather than on your behalf. This will help enhance your sense of independence as well as improve your quality of life.
An NDIS plan and the services that it includes are about you. When meeting with potential support coordinators, ask how they will help you achieve your goals. You are in control of the supports you receive and who works with you to provide those supports.
The best support coordination providers in Wollongong
Region Illawarra has combed through online reviews and recommendations to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best in Wollongong series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Region Illawarra and Facebook as well as maintained a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Region Illawarra’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Wollongong series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Region Illawarra and Facebook as well as maintain a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Your experience with support coordination providers in Wollongong
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the support coordination providers listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do NDIS support coordinators do?
They help you build the skills to understand, implement and use your NDIS plan in a way that best suits you. They can help you with the three levels of support coordination that can be included in your plan. These are support connection, support coordination and specialist support coordination.
How do I choose a support coordinator?
You can choose the best support coordinator by thinking about several factors. You’ll no doubt want great rapport. This way, you’ll feel comfortable with your support coordinator. You’ll likely want great communications skills. This way you’ll understand your funding and be better able to manage your budget. A great support coordinator will also link you to services provided by various organisations.
Is my support coordinator my main point of contact?
Yes, they’re your main point of contact for organising NDIS supports. This is one reason it’s important to find someone you get along with and have rapport with as they will help you organise your supports.
Can I change my support coordinator if I’m not happy?
You can change your support coordinator if you’re not happy. Remember, there are plenty to choose from and once you're with one, you are not locked in forever. Needs change over time and a new coordinator may better suit your interests.
How will my support coordinator help me achieve my goals?
When meeting with potential support coordinators, this is a good question to ask. Then you’ll understand how they’ll help you. Asking this question will also give you a feel for whether you can work well with the support coordinator. Finally, it will give you an idea of how they communicate and whether you can understand them.
