Unlocking the Best NDIS Experience

How to Choose Your Ideal Support Coordinator

Navigating the complexities of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be a daunting experience on your own. That’s why you need a support coordinator who can help you make the most out of your NDIS plan. They’ll help you understand your plan, connect you with suitable providers and keep track of your budget. They will even teach you how to manage your plan, if that’s one of your goals.

So, do you need a specialist support coordinator, and how do you choose one that matches your needs?

Knowledge & Experience

You need a support coordinator with plenty of experience managing NDIS plans. They should know all the local providers and be up to date with all relevant policy changes and NDIS regulations. If you pick wisely, their knowledge and experience will help you build a network of trusted providers who will quickly help you achieve your goals.

Questions to Ask:

·        How long have you been working as a support coordinator?

·        Can you explain recent changes in NDIS policies?

Excellent Communication Skills

The ability to break down complex ideas, systems and processes in a way that’s easy to understand is an invaluable asset in a support coordinator. Active listening is also another important asset. That’s because your support coordinator will need to select the best services for your needs, and it’s only by understanding these needs can your plan be successfully implemented.   

Questions to Ask:

·        Can you explain how my NDIS plan works?

·        How do you usually communicate with service providers on behalf of participants?

Empathy and Understanding

For a fulfilling relationship with a support coordinator, empathy is essential. They should genuinely understand your unique needs and desire to help you achieve your goals. Knowing that your support coordinator is listening to your needs and working with you to maximise your NDIS funding is a good feeling!

Questions to Ask:

·        Can you share an example of when you had to change your approach to meet the unique needs of an NDIS participant?

·        How do you ensure you fully understand the concerns and goals of the participants you work with?

Organisation & Time Management

The best support coordinators can efficiently multitask and have excellent time management skills. This means they can manage your budget, deal with your providers, process your invoices and provide the advice and guidance you need to get the most out of your plan.

Questions to Ask:

·        How do you prioritise tasks and manage your schedule to ensure each participant receives timely and effective support?

·        Can you describe a situation where you handled multiple responsibilities at once and how you ensured everything was managed efficiently?

Resourcefulness

Every NDIS participant's journey comes with its own set of challenges. Whether navigating complex regulations, coordinating multiple services, or even finding a provider who offers specialised services, a resourceful support coordinator gets it done!

Questions to Ask:

·        Can you describe a situation when you had to think creatively to solve a problem?

·        How do you identify alternative solutions to a problem?

Do You Need an NDIS Support Coordinator?

If you prefer the help of a support coordinator to manage your plan, these tips should ensure you find the best person for the job. At Future Focus, we’ll listen to your needs and help match you with one of our experienced support coordinators. You don’t even need to pay your support coordinator because the NDIS fund does that - it’s a win-win situation!