There’s a general stereotype where people think that individuals living with disability will always be dependent. But is that really the case? Can people with special needs live independently? 

Achieving independence is an important milestone for individuals living with disabilities all over the world and thanks to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), many differently abled Australians can easily achieve this goal. 

In this post, we’ll discuss different living options under NDIS, including Supported Independent Living (SIL) and Individual Living Options (ILO), and how they can help NDIS participants live a fulfilling and comfortable life. Let’s dive in. 

Individualised Living Option (ILO)

Individual/Individualised Living Options is a flexible approach to independent living under the NDIS. The primary focus of ILO is to enable individuals with special needs to live in a home of their choice while receiving the right level of support that they need.

One of the key benefits of Individualised Living Options NDIS is its flexibility. It allows a participant to decide to either live alone with occasional support, share a home with a housemate, or live with a supportive host family. For example, someone with average support needs may only need a support worker to visit them a few times a day. On the other hand, another person may require overnight support or on-call assistance. 

The process of setting up an ILO arrangement requires careful planning and assessment. 

An NDIS participant interested in ILO will work with their NDIS planner or support coordinator to check different housing and support options. Then they develop a personalised ILO package, which would contain the type of support required, the preferred living situation, and how the arrangement will be sustained long-term. This package is then submitted for approval to ensure that the proposed living setup aligns with NDIS funding criteria.

The ILO support funding is in two stages:

Stage 1: Exploration and Design

This is the beginning of the ILO support process, where interested participants receive help in planning their ideal living environment. This stage entails identifying potential homes and housemates, hosts, or support networks.

Stage 2: Support Implementation

This stage involves putting the stage one plan into action. This is where participants get their preferred accommodation and finalise support structures. The NDIS also ensures they have the resources they need to thrive in their chosen living environment.

It is important to note that the ILO support is not to get funds to pay rent or other utility bills. This support program is strictly to help participants get the required support they need in any housing environment that they choose. 

Supported Independent Living (SIL)

Supported Independent Living is another independent living option under the National Disability Insurance Scheme. 

SIL is ideal for assisting individuals with disabilities to live independently and still get necessary support with daily tasks. In this support programme, trained support workers are available either full-time or at scheduled times to help with personal hygiene and mobility assistance. They also assist with developing essential life skills, such as budgeting, cooking, and cleaning, to enhance self-sufficiency over time.

One of the major features of Supported Independent Living is shared accommodation. Most SIL participants live in shared accommodation (where they share a home with other individuals receiving similar support). However, SIL can also work in individual accommodations, depending on the participant’s choice.  

Difference Between ILO and SIL

The major difference between ILO and SIL is in the structure, the level of support, and flexibility. 

SIL is for people who need substantial, organised help with daily activities. In most cases, it is offered in a shared housing environment with support staff on hand to help with everyday tasks at regular hours or all day. 

ILO, on the other hand, offers a more customised and adaptable approach to independent living. It gives participants the freedom to choose their living arrangements. They can either choose to live alone, with a host family, or in a communal area with unofficial assistance.

Other Housing Options Under NDIS

ILO and SIL aside, one also has the option to choose between:

• Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA): This housing solution is perfect for individuals with extreme functional impairment and a higher degree of support needs. 

• Short-Term Accommodation (STA): Ideal for participants with temporary or transitional accommodation assistance.
  
  

Wrapping Up

Ultimately, the NDIS framework ensures that individuals with disabilities have the freedom to choose a living arrangement that supports their independence, dignity, and well-being. It is important to be well-informed before choosing and applying for this support programme. 

Do note that the process of applying, receiving funding, and choosing a living environment must be done with utmost care and caution. This is where getting a good and qualified NDIS provider comes in.

Ensure to consider experience, reputation, and ability to personalise support when selecting a SIL provider. A quality provider should have a clear understanding of the NDIS process and offer transparent communication. They must be committed to respecting your choices and preferences. Ensure you check reviews and speak to current participants, if you know any, before choosing your provider.