Finding Quality Disability Support Workers: A Safeguarding Perspective

Finding the right disability support worker is crucial for ensuring quality care and safety for people with disabilities. Whether engaging with a large organisation or a sole trader, it’s essential to understand the safeguards in place and the responsibilities all providers must uphold.

While there are many skilled and compassionate disability support workers, there are also individuals operating without the necessary knowledge of NDIS rules, legal obligations, or the right motivations. We share key factors to consider when searching for a reliable and qualified support worker, emphasising safeguarding.

How to Find a Quality Disability Support Worker

There are various ways to find a support worker, including:

• Disability organisations that provide support workers as part of their services.

• Online platforms where workers are independently vetted.

• Independent (sole trader) support workers, who may be found through recommendations, professional networks, or social media.

Beware of Facebook Groups

Social media platforms like Facebook have become popular for finding providers, including support workers. While some highly qualified workers advertise their services in these groups, others may lack the experience, qualifications, or commitment to providing quality care.

If you are considering engaging with a support worker through social media, take the same precautions you would when engaging any provider. Ensure they have the appropriate credentials and background checks in place.

Key Checks for Disability Support Workers

Before engaging a support worker, verify the following:

• NDIS Worker Screening (includes a criminal history check).

• Police Check – Ensures no criminal history that would pose a risk.

• Working with Children Check – Required if supporting children.

• ABN (Australian Business Number) – Ensures they are operating legally as a business.

• NDIS Worker Orientation Module – This free training on the NDIS Commission website helps workers understand their obligations under the NDIS Code of Conduct.

• Relevant Qualification – Such as a Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability).

• State Registration (if applicable) – Some states have voluntary registration schemes for disability workers, such as the Victorian Disability Worker Commission (VDWC).

NDIS Code of Conduct: A Requirement for ALL Providers

Whether support workers operate independently or within a large organisation, they must comply with the NDIS Code of Conduct. This applies to all providers, registered and non-registered.

The Code of Conduct requires providers to:

• act with respect for individual rights to freedom of expression, self-determination, and decision-making in accordance with relevant laws and conventions.

• respect the privacy of people with disability.

• provide supports and services in a safe and competent manner with care and skill.

• act with integrity, honesty, and transparency.

• promptly take steps to raise and act on concerns about matters that might have an impact on the quality and safety of supports provided to people with disability.

• take all reasonable steps to prevent and respond to all forms of violence against, exploitation, neglect, and abuse of people with disability.

• take all reasonable steps to prevent and respond to sexual misconduct.

• not charge or represent higher prices for the supply of goods for NDIS participants without a reasonable justification.

The Importance of NDIS Worker Screening

An NDIS Worker Screening will look at criminal history, past employment details, any AVOs (apprehended violence orders), misconduct in the workplace, offences while the individual was a juvenile and more.

Unregistered providers and self-managed participants can apply to access the data base, where all NDIS workers who have completed or applied for a Workers Screening are listed, showing their clearance status.

Mandatory for registered providers: All employees working in risk-assessed roles (where the worker has more than incidental contact with a person with disability), e.g. support workers, therapists, support coordinators, early childhood professionals.

Recommended for non-registered providers: While not compulsory, independent workers who undergo screening demonstrate their commitment to safety and quality. Non-registered providers can also access the worker screening database to verify their workers.

Why Choose a Registered Support Worker?

For independent disability workers, being registered (with their relevant state body, for example, the Victorian Disability Worker Commission) indicates they have the necessary skills and experience to deliver high-quality support.

Employers and participants who choose registered workers can have greater confidence in their qualifications and accountability.

You Have the Right to Change Providers

If you are unhappy with the service you receive from a support worker, whether they are part of an organisation or a sole trader, you are not obligated to stay if they are not meeting your needs. You have the right to move to another provider at any time.

Reporting Misconduct

If you believe an NDIS provider (registered or non-registered) has breached the NDIS Code of Conduct, you can lodge a complaint with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. Every provider receiving NDIS funding must adhere to the rules, and everyone is accountable.

Final Thoughts

Finding a quality disability support worker is about more than just experience; it’s about trust, accountability, and ensuring the safety and well-being of people with disabilities. Whether you choose a worker through a large organisation or an independent provider, always do your due diligence. Check their credentials, ensure they understand their obligations under the NDIS, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Remember, you have the right to expect safe, respectful, and professional support.

Training resources for providers:

Victorian Disability Worker Commission Training and Development Courses

NDIS Commission Worker Training Modules