As a registered NDIS provider, Hunter Care Group is here to help you understand exactly what a SIL assessment involves.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) makes it possible to access disability supports that foster a more independent and enriching life. For example, if you require daily assistance, you could benefit from Supported Independent Living (SIL) services designed to help with everyday tasks and build capacity.
To get SIL services included in your NDIS plan, you’ll need a SIL assessment.
But what is this evaluation and how does it work?
Here, we explain the fundamentals of a SIL assessment, including its definition, inclusions, benefits and process. Keep reading to learn about this important step on your NDIS journey.
What is Supported Independent Living?
Supported independent living (SIL) is a type of NDIS funding that helps individuals with high needs receive assistance and/or supervision to build their capacity to live as independently as possible.
You may qualify for SIL if you need substantial help or supervision every day or overnight. SIL supports aim to develop your capabilities so that you can become more self-reliant and achieve your goals.
Allied Health professionals, in collaboration with other healthcare providers involved in your care, recommend the specific supports you may need through a SIL assessment.
When reviewing your application for SIL funding, the NDIA will consider whether these supports will help you:
- Reach your goals
- Maintain or increase your level of independence
- Maintain or lessen the need for additional supports
- Strengthen social connections with your family, friends and wider community
SIL funding can then be directed to different types of NDIS supports, such as:
- Making your home accessible and safe: Making your home more accessible through minor and low-cost structural modifications and assistive technology that aid treatments, clinical appointments, and/or daily activities.
- Assistance with daily activities: Help or supervision for daily tasks like showering, dressing, personal care, medication management, capacity building tasks and activities.
- Household help: Assistance with chores like cooking, cleaning, and laundry.
It’s important to note that SIL funding cannot be used for rent, groceries, or other living personal expenses.
What is a SIL assessment?
A Supported Independent Living (SIL) assessment is a professional evaluation of your functional capabilities, as well as the supports needed to achieve your short-, medium- and long-term goals.
For instance, if you aim to lead a more independent life but require round-the-clock assistance with every task, then you might be eligible for SIL funding.
A SIL assessment is typically carried out by a trained clinician like an Occupational Therapist who will liaise with your close connections to get an accurate representation of what support you need for success.
This professional can use a range of assessments to give the NDIS clear and detailed information for making decisions about SIL, based on what is reasonable and necessary. Their recommendations will help you live more independently at home whilst ensuring your daily care needs are still being met.
Its results can then be used to update your NDIS plan and secure suitable SIL funding. The report format is straightforward, helping readers easily see the connections between the participant’s abilities, support needs, and the NDIS requirements.
If the NDIS requires extra information to determine your eligibility for SIL, your plan will cover funding for this assessment. As each case is reviewed individually, you’ll need to work with a Support Coordinator and NDIS Planner if you think you require SIL supports.
The SIL assessment process
To arrange a SIL assessment, NDIS participants follow the same general process. Here are the steps you should take if it sounds like the right way forward for your situation:
- Ask your Local Area Coordinator or NDIS planner for a Coordinator of Supports to be funded in your plan. You can find this under Capacity Building supports.
- Choose a reliable support coordinator like Hunter Care Group, who can connect you with an experienced Occupational Therapist.
- Attend a functional assessment with the Occupational Therapist. This helps to demonstrate your precise SIL support needs to the NDIS.
- Collect any other supporting documentation that sheds light on your disability and support needs. For example, a letter from your GP or psychologist.
- Bring these documents to your NDIS planning meeting, where you’ll determine whether SIL is the best option for you. To do this, you’ll discuss a range of considerations with your planner, like your circumstances, capabilities, goals, support needs and potential living arrangements.
- Once you’ve chosen a SIL provider, they will prepare a suitable Roster of Care and submit it to the NDIA for funding review along with the SIL assessment report.
- The amount of SIL funding you’ll be approved for depends on this assessment’s support recommendations, your current circumstances and proposed living arrangements.
How long does it take to complete a SIL Assessment?
The time it takes to complete a SIL assessment varies depending on the individual’s support needs and the complexity of their situation.
Sometimes, multiple sessions are needed to gather enough information for a SIL report.
These sessions help the Occupational Therapist to thoroughly understand the participant’s capabilities and requirements so that they can provide comprehensive and accurate recommendations.
Discover SIL services from the Hunter’s trusted NDIS provider
A SIL assessment is a key step on your way to a more independent and fulfilling future. These professional insights show the NDIS exactly what supports are required so that you can secure the SIL funding needed to thrive.
Ready to get started?
Hunter Care Group is a registered NDIS provider in Newcastle and the Hunter Valley. Our experienced team is deeply dedicated to empowering NDIS participants through a range of SIL services, from personal care and overnight supervision to cooking and cleaning.
No matter your goals, we’ll be by your side to create a SIL plan that meets every need.
To find out more about our disability support services in the Hunter region, please call us at (02) 4950 2269 or enquire online. We are always here to help.