Reachability Australia is a not-for-profit organization that provides disability support services to individuals across Australia. This case study focuses on Jack, a 28-year-old male with cerebral palsy, who is an NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) client receiving support coordination services from Reachability Australia.

Jack has been living with cerebral palsy since birth, which has significantly impacted his mobility and daily living. He relies on a wheelchair for mobility and requires assistance with various activities of daily living. Jack’s primary goal has always been to achieve greater independence, enhance his quality of life, and participate more actively in his community.

Support Coordination at Reachability Australia

Reachability Australia assigned a dedicated support coordinator, Sarah, to work closely with Jack. Sarah’s role is to assist him in navigating the NDIS system, identify his support needs, and help him connect with appropriate service providers to achieve his goals.

Challenges and Goals

Jack’s main challenges included:

Navigating the NDIS: Jack was overwhelmed by the complexity of the NDIS system and required assistance to understand his plan and funding.

Goal Setting: He needed help in setting clear, achievable goals that aligned with his long-term aspirations.

Service Coordination: Jack required support in finding and engaging suitable service providers to address his mobility and personal care needs.

Community Participation: He aspired to become more involved in community activities but was unsure how to access suitable programs and opportunities.

Support Coordination Process

Plan Review and Goal Setting: Sarah began by reviewing Jack’s NDIS plan and discussing his long-term aspirations. Together, they set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals that included improving his mobility through therapy and equipment upgrades, enhancing his personal care support, and increasing his participation in community activities.

Provider Selection: Sarah researched and recommended NDIS registered providers specializing in mobility aids and personal care services. She facilitated meetings with these providers to ensure their services aligned with Jack’s goals and preferences.

Community Engagement: Sarah worked with Jack to identify local community groups and events that aligned with his interests. She helped him register for these activities and facilitated introductions with event organizers and participants.

Budget Management: Sarah assisted Jack in understanding his NDIS budget, ensuring he made informed choices and stayed within budgetary limits.

Outcomes

After six months of support coordination with Reachability Australia, Jack experienced significant improvements in his life:

Improved Mobility: Jack received new assistive technology and therapy services that greatly improved his mobility and independence.

Enhanced Personal Care: He gained access to dedicated personal care providers who ensured his daily needs were met with dignity and respect.

Community Involvement: Jack became an active member of local community groups, making new friends and participating in activities that he had never thought possible.

Increased Confidence: With support coordination, Jack gained the knowledge and confidence to self-manage aspects of his NDIS plan, empowering him to take control of his own support.

Conclusion

Jack’s journey with Reachability Australia’s support coordination services demonstrates the positive impact of a person-centred approach in the NDIS. Through collaboration, goal-setting, and effective service coordination, Jack achieved greater independence, improved quality of life, and increased community participation. This case study highlights the importance of tailored support coordination services in helping NDIS participants like Jack achieve their goals and aspirations.