If you or someone you support wants to live more independently, you have probably heard the term Supported Independent Living (SIL). This guide explains what SIL is, who it suits, how it is funded through the NDIS and how to find SIL support in Orange, NSW.
What is Supported Independent Living?
SIL is NDIS funding for help with, or supervision of, everyday tasks so a person can live as independently as possible. Support is usually provided in a shared home with a small number of other people, but it can also be provided in a person’s own home. SIL is funded through the Core Supports (Assistance with Daily Life) part of an NDIS plan and is designed for people who need support for a significant part of each day.
What does SIL support include?
- Personal care, such as showering, dressing and grooming
- Cooking, meal planning and shopping
- Cleaning, laundry and household tasks
- Support with medication, as set out in a support plan
- Budgeting and managing appointments
- Building daily living skills over time
- Overnight support, where it is included in the plan
SIL is not the same as SDA
People often mix up SIL and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). SDA is funding for the home itself – specially designed or built housing for people with very high needs. SIL is funding for the support provided in the home. Some people have both; many people receive SIL in a home that is not SDA.
Who is SIL for?
SIL may suit NDIS participants who need help with daily tasks for much of the day and who want to live away from family or residential care. Your support coordinator, if you have one, can help you work out whether SIL is right for you and what evidence the NDIA may need.
How is SIL planned and funded?
SIL providers work with the participant, their family and support coordinator to understand the level of support needed through the day and night. This is used to build a roster of support and a quote for the NDIA. Once SIL funding is included in a plan, the provider and participant agree a service agreement before support starts.
Questions to ask a SIL provider
- How will my support be planned around my routines and goals?
- Who will I live with, and how are housemates matched?
- How do you keep staff consistent so I get to know my support workers?
- How do I give feedback or make a complaint?
- How will you help me build skills and stay connected to my community?
SIL in Orange, NSW
Epitome Care provides Supported Independent Living in Orange, with person-centred support planned around each person’s goals. If you want to try living away from home first, short term accommodation can be a good way to start.
Talk to Epitome Care in Orange
Epitome Care is a registered NDIS provider based in Orange, NSW. Call 0402 294 260, email info@epitomecare.com.au or make a referral online.