A friend in need is unquestionably a friend indeed! However, if you want them to be an NDIS support worker before starting to support you through your ups and downs in life, you should have a good idea of what the NDIS generally says about this.
The NDIS does support family and friends supporting their loved ones, but it doesn’t encourage them to be a support worker. However, it is true that becoming a support worker can open their hands more freely to assist you and ensure that you are seamlessly driven to your life’s goals with the help of personalised NDIS services in Sydney. So, if this is your requirement, especially with a friend of yours, continue reading to learn about the next best step.
The Role of Friends in NDIS Support
A friend giving support to an NDIS participant is solely referred to as informal support, but this is actually an integral part of life. Here’s what they are supposed to assist with:
- Household chores and transportation
- Emotional well-being and encouragement
- Guidance and companionship in navigating everyday challenges
This informal support is invaluable in the lives of participants but isn’t categorised under or funded by the NDIS, meaning your friend will be restricted from a lot of things to assure you of comprehensive assistance.
Can Your Friend Become a Support Worker?
Yes, your friend can become a support worker technically and not automatically. To qualify for this role, they should meet the following criteria:
- Registration with the NDIS
- Compliance with the NDIS codes and regulations, like the Code of Conduct and Practice Standards
- Meeting the NDIS quality and safeguards commission requirements
However, after becoming such a professional, if your friend supports you with running daily errands or offers assistance with managing emotions, the NDIS won’t cover or fund this because it will still be counted as informal or unpaid support.
When is Your Friend Eligible to Provide Formal NDIS Support?
The NDIS sometimes allows friends and families to provide formal NDIS support. The exceptions include:
- Remote Locations: When the participant has limited access to support services
- Cultural or Religious Needs: When the participant requires support with their unique cultural or religious needs
- Risk of Neglect: If the participant is under a risk of harm or neglect without family-provided formal support
- Strong Participant Preference: If the participant strongly prefers a friend or family member to get supported
However, this requires approval from the NDIA, which you can get by presenting proofs to the officials during a meeting.
A friend can understand your needs better than anyone else. But an NDIS service provider in Sydney can provide you with highly specialised assistance on the go while keeping the service aligned with your needs and goals. They will always cater to your preferences and ensure exceptional, professional support from start to finish.
Schedule a Consultation Now!
Quickly schedule a consultation with our expert support team at Innerworks Disability Services and learn what makes us better and stand out from the crowd. Call us now at 1300 56 46 17 before handing over the tough job of supporting you to your beloved friend!
