Having the opportunity to choose where you live and how you manage your daily routine can make a meaningful difference to your quality of life. For eligible people with disabilities who require regular assistance at home, Supported Independent Living (SIL) may provide an opportunity to develop everyday skills while receiving the support they need.
Supported Independent Living is an NDIS-funded support arrangement that helps eligible participants with daily tasks and supervision in their home. It is designed to encourage independence while addressing individual support requirements
What Is Supported Independent Living?
Supported Independent Living is intended for people who need significant assistance or supervision with everyday activities, potentially including support throughout the day and overnight.
Depending on a participant’s individual needs and approved supports, assistance may include:
- Personal care, dressing and hygiene.
- Preparing meals and developing cooking skills.
- Household tasks and maintaining daily routines.
- Building confidence with everyday decisions.
- Developing practical living skills.
- Accessing support in accordance with individual goals and care plans.
The level of assistance varies. Some participants may share supports with housemates, while other arrangements may involve more individualised assistance where appropriate.
How SIL Encourages Everyday Independence
Independence looks different for everyone. For one person, it might mean learning to prepare meals. For another, it could mean managing a morning routine, organising personal belongings or making more decisions about daily activities.
A good Supported Independent Living arrangement recognises what a participant can already do and identifies opportunities to build on those abilities.
Rather than completing every task for the individual, support workers can encourage participation and provide assistance at the level required. This approach can help participants practise skills, build confidence and exercise greater control over their lives.
Choosing the Right Living Arrangement
Finding a suitable living arrangement involves more than choosing a property. It is important to consider the person’s preferences, support needs, lifestyle and compatibility with any proposed housemates.
Useful considerations include:
- Preferred location and access to the community.
- Privacy and personal space.
- Compatibility with other residents.
- The availability and type of support required.
- Accessibility and safety within the home.
- Opportunities to maintain relationships and pursue interests.
Participants should be involved in decisions about their living arrangements as much as possible.
Understanding SIL Funding
SIL funding generally covers eligible support worker assistance rather than rent, groceries, utility bills or the cost of the home itself. Eligibility and the type of support funded depend on individual circumstances and NDIS requirements.
Participants should review their plans and discuss their needs with their NDIS contact or support coordinator to understand which home and living supports may be appropriate.
How Families Can Help With the Transition
Moving towards independent living can be a significant change for participants and their families. Open communication, realistic expectations and gradual skill development can help make the transition more manageable.
Families can support the process by discussing personal goals, identifying daily support needs and encouraging the participant to take an active role in decisions.
Explore Supported Independent Living With CHome and Community Care
The right support arrangement can help individuals work towards greater independence while receiving assistance suited to their needs.
Contact CHome and Community Care through its website to enquire about available services and discuss whether its support options align with your living goals.
