In this clear guide from a registered NDIS provider, you’ll learn what Supported Independent Living is and how it can empower those with high disability care needs.
With so many support services funded by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), unpacking your options can be tough. If you’ve come across the idea of Supported Independent Living (SIL) but don’t know whether it’s the right way forward for you or your loved one, we’re here to help.
So, what is SIL exactly and how does it work?
In a nutshell, SIL is designed for NDIS participants with high disability support needs who may require help full-time. It usually encompasses round-the-clock supports for everyday living, like personal hygiene, household chores and social outings.
Here, we break down this core component of the NDIS so that you can take the next step towards greater independence.
Read on to discover what sort of aids SIL can cover, who is eligible for this assistance and how it can foster participants’ capabilities and fulfilment in day-to-day life.
What does SIL stand for under the NDIS?
SIL stands for Supported Independent Living.
Keep reading to find out exactly what it involves.
What is SIL accommodation?
SIL accommodation is specialised housing support for NDIS participants with significant and ongoing disability care needs. Funded under the Core Supports budget, it is reserved for those who need help at home, often 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Ultimately, the goal is to provide the assistance needed to lead a more independent and rewarding life.
Tailored to your unique needs, these support services build daily living skills and encourage community involvement. That can mean helping with a range of routine activities, from grocery shopping to personal care.
Provided individually or in a shared living setup, these supports are offered in properties owned and operated by NDIS-registered SIL providers. Options can vary from villas and townhouses to apartments and shared living spaces, depending on your requirements and preferences.
Importantly, disability support workers will operate according to a personalised Roster of Care that your chosen SIL provider designs. The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) must review and approve this roster to make sure your NDIS plan includes the required funding.
What supports are covered under SIL?
SIL covers a range of supports to help participants perform daily tasks. Depending on your goals, these can include:
- Assistance with household activities like cleaning and cooking
- Help with personal hygiene and care, such as bathing and getting dressed
- Support with social and community participation that would otherwise be difficult
- Organising travel to appointments
- Personal skill building
- Overnight supervision
To make sure you access the right types of support, discuss your needs and aims with your Support Coordinator and NDIS planner.
With a deep understanding of your situation, capabilities and aspirations, we can work together to decide where best to direct your SIL funding.
What supports are not included under SIL funding?
SIL funding does not cover everyday living costs like groceries, rent, utilities, social activities and vehicle use.
It also doesn’t apply to holiday travel expenses, personal care fees during hospital stays, or the cost of items that fall under different categories of the NDIS price guide, such as assistive technology, transport, and therapy.
The difference between SIL and SDA
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) refers to housing and home modifications that have been specifically designed for individuals with disabilities who have very high support needs.
Therefore, SDA and SIL are two complementary components of the NDIS. SIL covers the cost of support staff to help with daily activities in the home, whereas SDA pays for the home itself.
As with SIL, SDA funding is assigned to the person, not the house. This funding goes to the SDA provider, who manages and maintains the property, much like a landlord.
An SDA provider:
- Usually builds and owns the home
- Is typically who you pay rent to
- Must maintain the home and take care of any damage
A SIL provider:
- Designs your Roster of Care
- Screens, provides and manages disability support workers
- Delivers disability supports within the SDA home
You can qualify for both SIL and SDA. If you are eligible for SDA, then you will also be eligible for SIL funding to cover the costs of supports needed within that home.
The difference between SIL and ILO
SIL and Individualised Living Options (ILOs) are often mistaken for one another, as they both involve at-home living supports funded by the NDIS.
Let’s clear up some key distinctions.
Added to the NDIA price guide in June 2020, ILOs are designed to offer greater flexibility in living arrangements. In other words, this pathway funds everyday supports in your chosen home environment (but it does not pay for your house!).
ILO funding is available at three levels; the lowest provides at least six hours of support daily, and the highest offers up to 24 hours of support each day. Therefore, ILOs can rely heavily on informal care provided by friends, family, or others who voluntarily choose to offer disability support without payment.
In contrast, SIL involves a fixed Roster of Care with professional support staff available 24/7. As a result, it’s typically considered more suitable for people with high disability support needs.
Getting approved for SIL housing
Eligibility for SIL housing depends on several criteria, like the participant’s age, the nature and severity of their disability, and their specific support needs.
Importantly, there are three levels of SIL funding:
- Lower needs – Participants who require regular supervision but not 24/7.
- Standard needs – Participants who need continuous support, including overnight.
- Higher needs – Participants with complex needs that need constant, active care.
To qualify for SIL, you must show your NDIS planner that such support is reasonable and necessary given your particular circumstances.
During your planning meeting, you’ll be asked why SIL funding is the best option for your situation. You may also need to submit a Functional Assessment Report (FAR) prepared by an accredited Allied Health professional to confirm your needs.
Getting approved for SIL usually involves working closely with a Support Coordinator, who helps guide you through the process and coordinates with SIL providers.
How to choose a SIL provider
Not sure which SIL provider to opt for?
Look into each provider’s background, reputation and values to find the right fit. You might also want to visit the SIL housing you’re considering and speak directly with the staff there about the care they offer, the experience of their support workers, and their operating guidelines.
It’s also always helpful to talk with your Support Coordinator.
We can help you choose the most suitable local SIL provider for your situation, guiding you through each step and preparing all paperwork for a smooth move.
Discover SIL accommodation in Newcastle and the Hunter Valley
Now that you’re no longer wondering ‘What is SIL?’, you can take the next step towards greater autonomy, connection and fulfilment. By providing personalised assistance with daily living, this NDIS funding plays a pivotal role in enhancing each participant’s quality of life.
At Hunter Care Group, we are dedicated to empowering people living with disabilities every day. As an NDIS-registered Supported Independent Living provider in Newcastle and the Hunter Valley, we offer comprehensive support to make the most of your plan.
To discover more about our disability support services throughout the Hunter, contact our friendly team at (02) 4950 2269 or enquire online. We’re always happy to help.