How do I get More Funding from the NDIS?
NDIS participants commonly wonder how they can receive the greatest funding for their plan. To address this, we need to explore how funds are allocated by the NDIS, and the tools that can help bolster a claim for additional resources.
How the NDIS Allocates Plan Funding
NDIS plans specifically state the funding for which the participant is eligible. This is based on what the NDIS deems reasonable and necessary for their needs, as well as the current support they receive from family, friends, the government, and community services. It is not, however, ‘means tested’ (current assets such as income or property have no bearing on eligibility for NDIS resources).
It’s important to note that this funding is provided on the condition that it only be used for supports and services related to the participant’s disability or disabilities.
How to Get Maximum Funding Through the NDIS
Communicate Your Needs
Given that NDIS funding is highly dependent on the participant’s needs and goals, it’s important to define how these shape day-to-day life. Some points to consider include:
Home Needs – Modifications to make the home easier to navigate and use, as well as the installation of important safety features.
Independence Support – The general assistance, transport, consumables, technology, and skill development needed to live as independently as possible.
Social Participation – What help is needed for the participant to engage with their local community and social circle?
Employment – This includes resume writing, education, upskilling, finance management, and workplace tools.
Personal Relationships – Help needed to successfully foster healthy interpersonal relationships.
Health and Wellbeing – Fitness education and personal training, healthy cooking, physiotherapy, psychological support.
Identify Goals
Goals can be difficult to decide upon, but doing so helps get the most out of an NDIS plan. In fact, they’re one of the most important aspects in determining the type of funding and support received.
Many find it helpful to first select a big, ambitious goal, before breaking down all the little steps needed to make it happen. Remember that these will likely involve some crossover with the participant’s needs, so funding may not exclusively cater to one or the other.
Undertake a Psychometric Assessment With a Qualified Psychologist
One of the best ways to understand the funding that is available to NDIS participants is to undergo a psychometric assessment with a qualified psychologist.
Though it sounds a little daunting, this straightforward process will allow the psychologist to recognise areas where further assistance and funding is not only available, but recommended. Their insights into both the NDIS system and the participant allows them to provide highly-regarded evidence that can support a claim of greater funding. Oftentimes they’re able to identify opportunities and challenges that even participants themselves haven’t considered.
Gold Coast residents interested in completing a psychometric assessment are encouraged to contact the experts at Urzi Psychology. In addition to clinical assessment, we’re able to offer clinical letters of support required for NDIS funding at a ‘review’ or ‘change of circumstance’ stage, applications for companion cards, and disability support pension.
Urzi Psychology Can Help Get The Most Out of NDIS Plans
Urzi Psychology offers a range of services that help NDIS participants get the greatest possible value from their NDIS plan. Along with conducting insightful psychometric assessments, we have a team of caring support workers capable of assisting with day-to-day activities, meeting needs, and achieving goals.
They also offer access to our unique Earthing Project – a holistic 12-week group therapy program that encourages community, health, and mental well-being through three distinct practices: Horticulture Therapy, Art Therapy and Music Therapy.
For more information peruse our range of services at urzipsychology.com
