Struggling with the NDIS? Help is out there!

The NDIS can be, at times, very overwhelming, with no clear path of where you can go for help. First and foremost, we, as your Plan Manager, are always here to help you. No matter your question or issue, we are here to support you. There are several other people and organisations that can also help, depending on your needs. Read on for details of those who can help you when you are feeling lost. 

1.Your “my NDIS contact”

This is your direct NDIS contact. Their name and number are on the front page of your plan, and you can reach out to them at any time if you need guidance. Depending on your age, if you are under 9, they will be your Early Childhood partner; if you are over 9, they will be your Local Area Coordinator, or your NDIS contact may be an NDIA planner. Your contact is there to help you understand your plan, connect with supports and services, and assist with general navigation of the scheme.

2.Us! Your Plan Manager

We are always here for your questions. No matter what they are, we will support you, guide you and help you find the answer or solution you are looking for.

3. NDIS Support Coordinator/ Psychosocial Recovery Coach

If you have funding in your plan for these two services, you can rely on them to help when needed. They are there to help you understand your plan, engage with providers, build your capacity and increase your independence.

4. Calling the NDIS on 1800 800 110

You can call the NDIS at any time on 1800 800 110. Although you may speak with a different person each time you call; you can always request to talk with your NDIS contact.

5. Disability Advocacy Network Australia (DANA)

The DANA works alongside Australian state and territory advocacy networks and the peak organisations to connect you to the right advocacy organisation. Disability advocacy is acting, speaking or writing to promote, protect and defend the human rights of people with disability. An advocate could be extremely helpful if you need help navigating your rights, accessing services and supports, or needing support to solve issues before they become a crisis.

6. Disability Gateway

The Disability Gateway is for all people with disability, their families and carers. The Disability Gateway is a government initiative to help those with disability navigate a range of areas in life, including income and finance, employment, aids and equipment, housing, education, rights and legal services, to name a few. Find their website here.

7. Carer Gateway

Carer Gateway is an Australian government program that provides free services and support for carers. Their services include in-person and online peer support groups, tailored support packages, in-person or phone counselling and coaching, online skills courses, and access to emergency respite. Call 1800 422 737 or find their website here.

If you are struggling, don’t wait any longer, there is help out there. The NDIS can be a very complicated system to navigate but there are lots of resources out there to make the journey easier.