Living independently is a goal which many people would share. But some people need a bit of extra support to make this dream a reality. This is where Supported Independent Living can help greatly. In Sydney, SIL houses and NDIS care providers work hand in hand to create safe, comfortable, and empowering living arrangements for the people with disabilities.
If you or one of your loved ones is an NDIS participant, it becomes really necessary to understand how these two elements can help you make informed decisions about the best living situation.
With this blog, we will try to explore how this partnership works and why it matters.
What Is Supported Independent Living?
Supported Independent Living, or SIL, is a type of NDIS funding provided to the people with disabilities who want to live as independently as possible while still receiving the care they need. However, supported independent living is not like any other traditional group homes or institutions. It gives an individual more choice and control over their daily life.
There are many support services available during a SIL stay such as personal care, meal preparation, medication management, household tasks, and community participation. Yes, the level of assistance generally varies from person to person, depending what their individual needs and goals are.
The best thing about SIL is that it is very flexible. Some people may need 24/7 support, while other people may only need help during certain time of the day. This is what allows an individual to maintain his/her independence in their own way.
The Role of an SIL House
An SIL house is simply a home where people with disabilities can live with all the essential supported Independent Living support. In Sydney, these houses can be apartments, townhouses, or even a regular home with all the facilities.
This SIL houses are specifically designed to make it look more like a ‘home’, not like any ‘institution’. Here residents (NDIS participants) can have their own bedrooms. But at the same time, if someone wishes, he/she can live in a shared common space as well.
Yes, the location of these houses is also important. Most SIL houses in Sydney are situated in regular neighbourhood areas which are generally close to the shops, parks, public transport, and community facilities. This proximity makes the residents connected to the community and they can also take participation in everyday activities just like anyone else.
How NDIS Care Providers Support SIL Residents
An NDIS care provider is an organisation who offers the actual disability support services in an SIL house. These providers have trained support workers who helps the residents of a SIL house in their daily works.
At ZedCare Ability Services, our team takes care of each resident who needs support for their unique challenges. To us, every person is different and so are their challenges, individual goals and lifestyles. Thus, we give support purely based on individual needs – in the most personalised way.
Support workers in SIL houses help with various tasks. These can include:
- Personal hygiene
- Getting dressed
- Meal preparation
- Medication management
- Cleaning
- Attending appointments
and many more.
Besides all these practical tasks, our support workers also work with the participants in various other aspects such as life skill development, hobbies persuasion, budget management, and with community engagement.
Benefits of This Collaborative Approach
When SIL houses and NDIS care providers work well together, NDIS participants can get various benefits such as:
- Sense of Belonging
First and foremost, a sense of home and belonging can be described as a crucial benefit for the participants. Residents of SIL house do not just receive care; but here they get to live their own life in their own terms. This is a huge difference to their quality of life and mental wellbeing.
- Self-Independence
Obviously, the amount of ‘independence’ they enjoy here is another major benefit. Rather than making and doing everything for them, the residents are actually encouraged to do as much as they can do for themselves on their own. Most support workers job is to provide assistance only when it is necessary. This greatly helps in build confidence and life skills in the participants.
- Improved Socialisation
In a well-run SIL house in Sydney, social connections also improve for the participants. They actually have the opportunities to build new friendships with their housemates, can take participation in community activities and can also maintain relationships with family and friends.
- Safety & Security
SIL houses are made keeping the safety and security of the people in mind. There are trained professionals to take care of all your needs. This means the family of the participants can have peace of mind knowing their loved one is in best of hands.
Choosing the Right Provider in Sydney
Yes, it is true that not all NDIS care providers in Sydney are the same. That is why, if you are looking for options in supported independent living in Sydney, it becomes very important to find a provider who meets your values and needs.
Look for providers who have much experience in SIL services. Besides, you can study all the online reviews from current and former residents and their families. With this, you will get an idea about their reputation, staff behaviour, and what approach they carry while offering care to the inmates.
As a registered NDIS provider in Sydney, ZedCare Ability Services put focus on to create a supportive environment where people with disabilities can thrive together. We have a highly experienced and knowledgeable team who can manage the diverse needs of the participants and is always committed to help each resident to achieve their personal goals.
Making the Transition to SIL
Yes, it is true again that moving into an SIL house is a big step. Most NDIS Care providers understand this and that’s why they try best to make the transition as smooth as possible for you.
If you are moving in to a SIL house, you can visit the house beforehand, meet your prospective housemates and support workers and try to gather their experiences and concerns. This is really very helpful as this would make everyone more comfortable with the arrangement.
Conclusion
The partnership between SIL houses and NDIS care providers in Sydney is a good opportunity for people with disabilities to live a fulfilling and independent life. When these two elements work together effectively, residents can have the support they need while maintaining control over their daily lives.
FAQS
Q) What is the difference between an SIL house and a group home?
è An SIL house generally focus on participants’ independence with necessary support. On the other hand, group homes put emphasis on structured care more. Thus, SIL residents can have more control over their daily life and decisions.
Q) How much does Supported Independent Living cost?
è SIL is generally funded through the NDIS. That means an eligible NDIS participant can have the cost covered in his/her NDIS plan. The amount will solely depend on what individual support service he/she needs during his/her stay in SIL house.
Q) Can I choose who I live with in an SIL house?
è Yes, care providers try to match a compatible resident based on the interests, lifestyles, and personalities of the participants. You can express your preferences about your living arrangements with them before moving in.
Q) How many people typically live in an SIL house?
è Most SIL houses accommodate between two to five residents. However, it can vary depending on the property size and individual needs.
Q) Can family and friends visit SIL houses?
è Yes, absolutely. SIL houses are just like homes and residents are free to have visitors, host gatherings, and maintain their relationships just like in any other living situation.