Support coordinators are vital in the administration of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), aiding participants in implementing their plans and exerting autonomy over the supports and services they utilise.
Introducing support coordinator Mitch Bond from Recovery Options
Recovery Options (RO) is a unique NDIS provider catering to individuals seeking personalised services. Specialising in disability and psychosocial disability services within the Yarra Ranges and surrounding areas, RO assist clients and families in managing various aspects of disability. Their goal is 100% customer satisfaction by offering support for a wide range of disabilities, including physical, neurological, psycho-social, and more. With a dedicated team of support coordinators and access to various allied health professionals, RO simplify the process of accessing essential services for their clients.
Meet SC Mitch!
Kadia recently interviewed Mitch, from Recovery Options, a registered NDIS provider and asked Mitch to walk us through a day in the life of a support coordinator.
What does a support coordinator do?
A support coordinator assists individuals with disabilities in navigating the complexities of support services and resources available to them. They work closely with clients to understand their needs, preferences, and goals, and then coordinate and connect them with appropriate service providers and community resources. Support coordinators also help clients develop and implement support plans, advocate on their behalf, and monitor their progress to ensure they are receiving the necessary support to achieve their goals.
How did you get started in support coordination?
While working at Recovery Options, a local NDIS provider, I was acknowledged for my strong documentation skills and offered a chance to transition into support coordination. With a background in Aged Care, Home and Community Care, and Nursing, I bring a wealth of experience to this role. Driven by my passion for helping others and making a positive impact, I am excited to work in a dynamic field where I can directly assist individuals with disabilities in accessing the support they require to thrive.
What’s the difference between a support coordinator and a local area coordinator?
Support coordinators and local area coordinators both aid individuals with disabilities in accessing support services, but their roles differ in several ways. Support coordinators primarily assist those with a NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) plan, guiding them through the NDIS system, devising support plans, and coordinating services. In contrast, local area coordinators typically work with individuals new to disability support services, offering information, guidance, and help in connecting them with suitable services and supports in their community.
How would someone get support coordination funded in their plan?
To access support coordination funding in their NDIS plan, an individual must demonstrate that they require assistance in coordinating their support services due to the complexity of their needs or circumstances. This can be determined during their NDIS planning meeting, where they can request support coordination funding if it is deemed necessary to help them effectively navigate and access the support services available to them. Support Coordination is a capacity building support and is generally expected to reduce from plan to plan.
What’s a typical day in the life of a support coordinator?
A typical day for a support coordinator involves a combination of client meetings, coordination with service providers, administrative tasks, and documentation. This could include conducting support sessions with clients to review their goals and progress, coordinating services with service providers, documenting client interactions and support plans, and attending team meetings or training sessions.
At what point do you recommend plan management?
I may recommend plan management to clients who require assistance in managing their NDIS funding and budgets. This could be due to factors such as complexity of funding arrangements, challenges in navigating the NDIS portal, or a preference for having a professional manage their funds on their behalf. Plan management can help ensure that clients have greater flexibility and control over their funding, while also alleviating administrative burdens.
Do you assist people to find service providers?
Yes, as a support coordinator, one of my key responsibilities is to assist individuals in finding and connecting with appropriate service providers that can meet their needs. This may involve researching and identifying relevant service providers, facilitating introductions and referrals, and coordinating services to ensure that clients receive the support they require.
What are some of the biggest challenges you face at work?
Some of the biggest challenges I face as a support coordinator include navigating the complexities of the NDIS system, advocating for clients to receive the support they need, managing competing priorities and deadlines, and adapting to changes in regulations or policies. Additionally, ensuring effective communication and collaboration with clients, service providers, and other stakeholders can also present challenges at times.
What are your top tips for support coordinators? Some top tips for support coordinators include:
- Develop strong communication skills to effectively engage with clients, service providers, and other stakeholders.
- Stay organised and prioritise tasks to effectively manage competing priorities and deadlines.
- Continuously educate yourself on the NDIS system, policies, and regulations to stay informed and provide accurate information and support to clients.
- Adopt a collaborative approach by working closely with clients to understand their needs, preferences, and goals, and involve them in the decision-making process.
- Advocate on behalf of your clients to ensure they receive the support and services they are entitled to under the NDIS.
- Take care of yourself and prioritise self-care to prevent burnout and maintain your well-being, both personally and professionally.
A Day in “My Life” as a Remote Support Coordinator Working from Home!
MORNING
7:00 AM I begin my day at home in the picturesque Yarra Valley, Victoria, feeling refreshed and prepared to take on my role as a support coordinator. Before delving into my tasks, I savor a couple of flat white coffees while I review my schedule and outline my priorities for the day.
8:30 AM I nestle into my home workspace, encompassed by my computer, phone, and other necessities for remote operations. With my morning rituals in place, I commence by perusing emails and messages, promptly attending to any pressing enquiries from clients, providers, or colleagues.
9:00 AM My first task of the day is a virtual support session with “Jack”, one of my clients who resides interstate. Together, we discuss “Jack’s” progress towards his goals and troubleshoot any challenges he may be encountering along the way.
11:00 AM Following my session with “Jack”, I join my colleagues in a virtual team meeting. We collaborate on updates regarding client cases, exchange resources, and brainstorm strategies for providing the best support possible.
AFTERNOON
12:30 PM I indulge in a deserved lunch break, distancing myself from the computer to rejuvenate both body and mind. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll, tending to my pets, or whipping up a meal, I ensure I’m refreshed and prepared to tackle the remainder of the day.
1:30 PM In the afternoon, I’m engaged in a series of phone calls with service providers and community organisations, coordinating support services for my clients. It’s crucial to ensure they have access to the resources necessary for their everyday well-being and progress towards their NDIS plan goals.
3:30 PM I dedicate time to updating client files and documenting interactions in detail, ensuring transparency and accountability. However, my planned day can change with a single phone call, often involving clients in crisis or needing immediate assistance. I’ve learned the value of boundaries in my role and strive to work within my scope of practice as a support coordinator.
EVENING
5:00 PM With the workday winding down, I wrap up any remaining tasks and prepare to transition into my evening routine. Before signing off, I send out final emails and set my out-of-office message to inform clients of my availability for the next day.
6:00 PM It’s time to unwind after a productive day of work. Whether it’s walking my dogs, tending to goats, spending time with family, or simply relaxing, I make sure to prioritise self-care to recharge for the evening ahead.
8:00 PM Before calling it a night, I take a moment to reflect on the day and outline any follow-up tasks or priorities for tomorrow. Ensuring my clients are on track with their goals and are adequately supported.
