Living independently is a big goal for many people with disabilities. The good news is that Supported Independent Living (SIL) funding can help make this happen. At 3Sixty5 Care, we help people understand SIL and get the support they need to live more freely and confidently.
SIL is more than just daily help. It’s about building a life where you feel safe and have control over your choices. Here, we will discuss the SIL and who is eligible to receive SIL and how it takes place under the NDIS.
What Is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
Supported Independent Living is a type of support funded by the NDIS. It’s for people with high support needs who want to live on their own or in a shared home. SIL means you get help every day to do things like cook, clean, and take care of yourself.
SIL is not just one kind of help. It’s a mix of support that matches your needs. Some people get support all day and night. Some of them only require a few hours of help. You will be the person who will help you live as independently as possible.
You can find SIL in a community house or even within your house as well as with other individuals. The right option depends on what works best for you. SIL is there to give you freedom with the help you need.
Who Can Get SIL Funding?
SIL is made for people with higher support needs. You may need help with personal care, safety, or daily tasks. To get SIL funding, you must be a NDIS participant and show that you need this kind of regular support.
You’ll need to share reports from your doctors or therapists. These reports explain why you need SIL and how it will help you. You may also need to fill out a Home and Living application with the NDIS.
The NDIS then decides if SIL is the right support for you. If they agree, the funding will be added to your plan under “Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Life.”
What Does SIL Funding Cover?
SIL covers the cost of support workers who help with daily life. It does not pay for rent, food, or bills. The workers can help you with many tasks depending on your needs.
This can include:
- Getting dressed or showering
- Making meals or snacks
- Cleaning your room or doing laundry
- Taking medicine
- Going to appointments or joining activities
You may also get overnight support if needed. Some people have workers who stay awake through the night. Others may just need someone to check in while they sleep.
The main aim of SIL is to give you support so you can do more on your own. It helps you feel safe and confident while living in your chosen home.
What Is Supported Independent Living Accommodation?
SIL helps pay for your support, but not your accommodation. That means you still need to pay rent or find a place to live. Some people may also be eligible for SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation) if they have extra housing needs.
Supported independent living accommodation can be a shared house, an apartment, or a private rental. It can be a place you move into alone or with other people who also get NDIS support.
The home should match your lifestyle and needs. Some people like being in a social home with housemates. Others prefer quiet and more personal space. The goal is to feel comfortable and safe in your living space.
How to Get SIL Funding from the NDIS
Getting SIL funding starts by applying through the NDIS. You or your support coordinator can fill out a Home and Living application. This form tells the NDIS about your needs and why SIL is the best option for you.
You’ll also need to provide reports from professionals. For example, an occupational therapist might write about the help you need each day. These reports show how SIL will support your goals and keep you safe at home.
The NDIS reviews your case and makes a decision. If they approve it, SIL funding will appear in your next plan. The amount depends on how much support you need and how often.
What Does SIL Look Like in Real Life?
SIL looks different for everyone. Some people live in a shared home in Melbourne with 24/7 support staff. Others live on their own and have workers come in the morning and evening.
One example could be Sarah, who lives with two housemates. Her support worker helps her with cooking and cleaning, while another person gets help with transport and medicine.
SIL is flexible. It can change as your needs change. The support you get should help you build skills and feel more independent over time.
- Safe, comfortable accommodations that are clean enough
Melbourne is a great place to access supported independent living. The city is full of services, methods of transport and multifarious communities. There are SIL support regions all through north, south, east and west, so no one need not go far.
There are a lot of reachable houses and communal dwellings in Melbourne, as well. You will be able to select something, which is either near family, work, or community centers.
The appreciation in Melbourne is said to be inclusive and respectful. You are also able to get providers who are familiar with your language, culture or background.
How 3Sixty5 Care Can Help You
As a trusted registered NDIS provider, 3Sixty5 Care supports people through the SIL journey. We don’t just offer support workers we help you from start to finish.
We can assist with:
- Understanding your NDIS plan
- Applying for SIL funding
- The provision of writing support letters and assessment
- Getting the right accommodation
- To have caring support staff that is trained
We go to the extent of listening to your requirements and pairing your needs with motivated workers who treat you with greed and compassion. Safety and Independence are the most important things to us.
We collaborate with you, family and support team to ensure things go well, and you are happy in your house.
Final Thoughts
Supported Independent Living is more than a service. It is how to have control over your life and to be supported every day. Whether you need help with daily tasks or 24/7 care, SIL can help you live more freely.
I will admit there is an initial aspect of confusion in the process, but you do not have to work out the process yourself. We take you through the process of admission all the way to the transfer process and even after that at 3Sixty5 Care.
When you are prepared to find out more about SIL or when you need assistance in getting started, you should contact 3Sixty5 Care today. Let’s talk about your goals and how we can support your journey to independent living in Melbourne
