Supported Independent Living: Answers to Your Questions

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is one of the many valued services offered by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). It assists individuals in living as independently as possible while receiving oversight and assistance from qualified support workers. SIL is categorised based on the level of support required:

• Basic: This level provides support for daily tasks like budgeting, chores, meals, and personal care.
• Standard: This level offers more comprehensive support for daily activities, including personal care, medication management, meal planning, transportation, and household tasks.
• High: This level provides substantial support, focusing on safety, well-being, and quality of life, which may include 24-hour assistance.

The purpose of SIL is to foster independence, build skills, and help participants achieve their short and long-term goals. It includes assistance with activities such as preparing meals, personal care, and daily tasks like shopping.

Are you wondering if SIL is right for you or your loved one? If so, read on to get answers to some commonly asked questions about this form of NDIS support:

What is the goal of supported independent living?

The goal of Supported Independent Living (SIL) is to empower individuals with disabilities to live as independently as possible while receiving necessary support tailored to their specific needs. This support framework is designed to:

• Promote Independence: SIL aims to equip participants with the skills and confidence to manage their daily lives with minimal assistance. This includes helping with tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and personal care.
• Build Skills: Through personalised support, participants can develop and enhance their skills in various areas, including financial management, household chores, and social interactions.
• Enhance Quality of Life: By providing a supportive environment, SIL helps participants achieve a higher quality of life. This includes ensuring their safety and well-being through 24-hour support if needed.
• Achieve Goals: SIL is goal-oriented, focusing on both short-term and long-term objectives. Whether it’s gaining employment, pursuing education, or simply maintaining a healthy lifestyle, SIL support workers help participants work towards these goals.
• Community Integration: Another critical goal is to facilitate the integration of participants into their communities. This is achieved through assistance with transportation, social activities, and community engagement.

What does support independent living look like?

Supported Independent Living (SIL) varies based on the level of support and the individual needs of participants, but it generally involves:

• Personalised Support Plans: Each participant has a tailored plan outlining the specific support they need. This plan is regularly reviewed and adjusted to ensure it meets the participant’s evolving needs.
• Qualified Support Workers: Participants receive assistance from trained and qualified support workers who help with daily tasks and provide companionship.
• Daily Assistance: This can include help with personal care, meal preparation, household chores, medication management, and transportation.
• 24/7 Support: For those who require it, high-level SIL provides round-the-clock assistance to ensure the participant’s safety and well-being.
• Skill Development: Participants engage in activities that build their skills and confidence, such as budgeting, cooking, and socialising.
• Community Involvement: SIL encourages and facilitates community participation, helping participants attend social events, join clubs, and volunteer.
• Safe Living Environment: SIL ensures that participants live in safe and accessible housing that meets their needs.

What are the benefits of supported independent living?

The benefits of Supported Independent Living (SIL) are numerous and include:

• Increased Independence: Participants gain the skills and confidence to manage their daily lives with reduced reliance on others.
• Personalized Care: Each participant receives care tailored to their specific needs, ensuring they get the appropriate level of support.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: With the right support, participants can enjoy a higher quality of life, participating in activities they enjoy and maintaining their well-being.
• Skill Development: SIL helps participants develop essential life skills, which can lead to greater self-sufficiency and empowerment.
• Community Integration: SIL supports participants in becoming active members of their communities, which can improve their social networks and overall happiness.
• Safety and Security: With 24/7 support available, participants can feel safe and secure, knowing help is always at hand.

What is the difference between SDA and SIL?

Supported Disability Accommodation (SDA) and Supported Independent Living (SIL) are both NDIS supports but serve different purposes:

• SDA (Supported Disability Accommodation): Refers to specialised housing designed to meet the needs of individuals with extreme functional impairments or very high support needs. SDA homes are built to be accessible and safe, providing physical support to residents. The focus is on the housing itself, ensuring it is suitable for the occupant’s needs.
• SIL (Supported Independent Living): Refers to the support services provided to participants living in various types of housing, including SDA. SIL focuses on helping individuals with daily living tasks and promoting independence. The support can be provided in a range of settings, including shared housing, individual apartments, or family homes.
• Integration: While SDA provides the physical environment, SIL provides the personal support services. Some participants may live in SDA housing while receiving SIL services to help them live independently.

How can supported independent living be accessed?

Accessing Supported Independent Living (SIL) involves several steps:

• NDIS Plan: First, ensure that SIL is included in your NDIS plan. This involves an assessment of your needs by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).
• Planning Meeting: During your NDIS planning meeting, discuss your goals and the level of support you require. Be clear about how SIL will help you achieve your independence goals.
• Provider Selection: Once SIL is included in your NDIS plan, choose a service provider. Supported Independent Living, a service of My Care Ability, is one such provider offering comprehensive SIL services.
• Tailored Support: Work with your chosen provider to develop a personalised support plan. This plan will outline the specific services and supports you will receive.
• Ongoing Review: Your SIL plan should be regularly reviewed and adjusted as your needs and goals evolve.

For more information or to access our services, please contact Supported Independent Living, a service of My Care Ability, at 0481046820