Finding the Right Support with a Team Leader

When I first thought about moving from a group home into my own Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), I wasn’t sure I could do it.I thought that maybe my disability was too progressive, and my needs were too high for me to move. I had never known any other model of care that worked for people with my neurological condition.I hadn’t lived alone before and wasn’t advised about any other types of accessible, or affordable housing. Due to my diagnosis, I couldn’t work full-time, I only had a job that paid $50 a week. So how was I going to be able to afford rent and other living costs?SDA was introduced as a NDIS initiative, aimed at providing a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to group homes – offering eligible participants, a safe place to live where choices are valued, and self-determination is encouraged.How could I arrange my own team of supports? Was I going to be able to access care when I needed it? What would happen to me if someone called in sick right before their shift?
Who would I ring when I needed back up? I had been living with 24-hour care provided, and to transition into my own apartment was beyond intimidating. My parents had serious doubts as to whether it would be a good option for me.I wanted to choose my own support workers and get cared for the way I wanted. I didn’t like having time limits on my social outings, or the distracted help I received in a group home environment. My support coordinator recommended to me that I bring one of my more experienced workers on as a team leader. She would assist me when choosing my team, as well as arranging my roster of care. I met a support worker that I grew to trust, when living at the group home, and discovered she would continue working with me when I moved into my own SDA. This was a huge relief for me and made me excited for the change, not so worried.Before I had a team leader, I felt very alone in my SDA journey. With a designated team leader in place, it gave me a lot more freedom to explore my independence and allowed me to achieve new things. I was able to find a job doing something that I love. Working flexible hours that suited my schedule of therapies allowed me to remain on top of my health. I also enjoyed the dating scene for the first time since leaving home. These new experiences have made me feel like an adult, which is something I never felt in the group homes I lived in.My transition into SDA living ran a lot smoother with a team leader in place. I would highly recommend this to anyone who is considering moving to independent living.
Article Published: November 2023*This blog reflects current NDIS policy and legislation. Please note that these mentions may become incorrect as the NDIS changes.

About The Author

Jamie-Lee loves to challenge stereotypes surrounding disability; her lived experience of growing up with a disability motivates her advocacy. Having studied journalism at university, she uses her writing skills to her advantage. She hopes to help other people with a disability along their journey, encouraging vulnerable people to find their voice. She believes that diversity will pave the way to equality for all.
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