When it comes to supporting individuals with disabilities or special needs in their quest for independence, two crucial concepts come into play: Supported Independent Living (SIL) and Roster of Care (ROC). SIL and ROC are integral components of empowering individuals to live fulfilling lives while receiving the necessary support tailored to their unique needs.
SIL aims to enhance independence and self-sufficiency by providing individualised assistance, skill development, and promoting community integration. Similarly, ROC ensures that the proper support is available at the correct times, offering coordination, communication, and supervision to maintain quality care. Together, SIL and ROC aim to promote independence, improve quality of life, and foster community integration for individuals with disabilities.
According to a study conducted by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) in 2021/22 in Australia, individuals who receive Supported Independent Living and utilise the Roster of Care experience a significant improvement in their quality of life. The study found that 78% of participants reported increased independence and autonomy after implementing SIL and ROC services. To delve deeper into these topics, Let’s explore Supported Independent Living and the Roster of Care, their benefits, and how they contribute to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities.
Understanding NDIS Supported Independent Living (SIL)
National Insurance Disability Scheme (NDIS); Supported Independent Living (SIL) is a funding category under the NDIS. It aims to provide individuals with disabilities the support they need to live independently in their own homes or shared accommodations. SIL funding covers the cost of support workers and services necessary to assist individuals in their daily activities, personal care, and household management.
SIL can be provided in various settings, including private residences, group homes, and shared living arrangements. The level of support offered to SIL participants will depend on the individual’s needs and preferences. It enables participants to access daily support, including overnight assistance tailored to their specific requirements. Including SIL funding in your NDIS plan is contingent upon showing that the license is reasonable and essential to meet your needs.
Who is SIL for?
SIL is designed for people with disabilities who can live independently but require some assistance with daily living activities. This may include people with physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities, or mental health conditions.
To be eligible for SIL funding under the NDIS, a person must have a permanent and significant disability that affects their ability to carry out daily living activities. They must also be aged between 7 and 65 and be Australian citizens or permanent residents.
Unveiling NDIS Roster Of Care (ROC)
The NDIS Roster of Care ensures the appropriate allocation and coordination of support staff to meet the needs of individuals receiving SIL services. The ROC involves planning, scheduling, and managing support workers’ shifts and tasks to provide consistent and reliable support to individuals with disabilities. It is typically provided by a team of support workers who assist the individual with meal preparation, personal care, medication management, and household chores. The level of support offered will depend on the participant’s needs and preferences and may be provided on a regular or as-needed basis.
Within the framework of the NDIS, the Roster of Care serves as a structured document compiled by the SIL provider, outlining the specific hours and services rendered to participants residing in a SIL house over a week. The registered NDIS provider collaborates closely with the participant or their authorised representative to prepare this comprehensive document, which must then be submitted to the NDIA.
Who is ROC for?
ROC is designed for people who require assistance with daily living activities but do not require the level of support provided by residential care or SIL. This may include older adults, people with disabilities, or people recovering from an injury or illness.
To be eligible for this funding, a person must generally require a low level of support and be able to live independently with some assistance.
How do SIL Support and ROC work?
SIL and ROC work hand in hand to provide individuals with disabilities the necessary support to live independently. The process involves collaboration between SIL providers, individuals, their families, caregivers, and healthcare providers. Here’s an overview of how SIL and ROC work together:
- Development of Support Plan: SIL providers work closely with individuals to develop a support plan that identifies their goals, preferences, and specific needs. This plan serves as a blueprint for the support services required.
- SIL Roster of Care Creation: SIL providers create a ROC based on the support plan and then outline the tasks and support workers needed to meet the SIL participant’s requirements. It divides the week into blocks of time, specifying the type and duration of support for each period.
- Evaluation and Planning: During the NDIS planning meeting, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) assesses various factors, including goals, age, level of independence, need for assistance throughout the day, and value for money. This evaluation helps determine the level of SIL funding required.
- Collaborative Efforts: SIL providers work closely with individuals, their families, caregivers, and support coordinators to ensure the best possible personal care. They may consult with healthcare providers and therapists to incorporate specialised support needs.
- Housing Options and Provider Selection: Support coordinators assist individuals in identifying appropriate housing options and selecting a suitable SIL provider. This process involves evaluating different providers, considering their expertise and compatibility with the individual’s needs.
- Roster Approval and NDIS Submission: Once the ROC is finalised and the individual is satisfied, they will be asked to sign it. The support coordinator then submits a change in circumstances form to the NDIS, notifying them of the decision to move to SIL housing.
- NDIS Review and Funding Approval: The NDIS reviews all the supporting documentation to determine if the funding request is reasonable and necessary. The SIL budget is released into the individual’s NDIS plan upon approval.
What advantages do SIL and ROC bring?
SIL and ROC bring about a multitude of advantages for individuals with disabilities, encompassing:
- Enhanced Independence: SIL and ROC empower individuals with disabilities to embrace an independent lifestyle and actively engage in their communities, fostering a sense of autonomy and self-reliance.
- Tailored and Personalised Support: Through SIL, individuals work closely with dedicated providers to develop a support plan that caters specifically to their unique needs and preferences.
- Focus on Quality Care: SIL providers place the utmost importance on delivering high-quality care. They ensure that support workers undergo comprehensive training and receive ongoing supervision, guaranteeing that individuals receive the best possible support.
- Improved Quality of Life: SIL and ROC services significantly contribute to enhancing the overall quality of life for individuals with disabilities. By providing the necessary support to achieve their goals and aspirations, these services enable individuals to lead more fulfilling and meaningful lives.
Wrapping Up as a SIL Provider!
At Wise Choice, we firmly believe in the importance of granting every individual the opportunity to lead a life filled with independence and fulfilment. If you still have more questions, you can Contact Us right away. Our dedicated team of extensively trained support workers is available around the clock, providing supported independent living services in carefully curated shared accommodations.
We encourage you to embrace your newfound independence, explore new horizons, and live life to the fullest. Your journey towards a fulfilling and self-determined life continues, and we are here cheering you on every step of the way.
Join us and discover the perfect blend of freedom, autonomy, self-exploration, and dignity that awaits you.
