Supported Independent Living (SIL) gives people living with disabilities more freedom to enjoy life their own way with the support they need. As an NDIS-funded service, SIL is highly tailored towards people’s individual needs. In this article, we’ll explore SIL a little more and examine the benefits of a supported independent living service.
What is Supported Independent Living?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is a service funded by the NDIS and offered by a variety of public and private providers. SIL participants live in a family-style home either by themselves or with others. Depending on their needs and level of care. All people living with disabilities have different capabilities when it comes to daily tasks, which is why SIL is highly tailored to suit participants’ needs.
The best SIL providers offer homes and support that enhance participants’ lives, encouraging them to enjoy their independence while being there for support when needed. There are so many benefits of Supported Independent Living, and we’re going to explore some of them below.
Tailored support for individuals
As mentioned, all Supported Independent Living services align with a participant’s NDIS funding and Roster of Care. As such, it’s about providing the right level of support while allowing people the freedom to live their own way. SIL providers work closely with health professionals, the NDIS, and, most importantly, participants and their families to determine the appropriate support. As with all NDIS care plans, support can be reviewed and adjusted at any time as circumstances change.
NDIS funding for participants
The other major benefit for many people living with a disability is the fact that SIL is NDIS-funded. Without this assistance, it would be expensive for families to receive the support they need. It’s worth mentioning, however, that private SIL providers will work with non-NDIS participants on a self-funded basis. While this is obviously more expensive, those with the financial means may prefer dealing directly with a provider to discuss support, rather than going through the NDIS.
A house that feels like home
Some people have a misinformed view of Supported Independent Living based on previous experiences with group homes or similar facilities. For example: SIL homes aren’t sterile or have cold environments. Participants are always encouraged to make their homes their own. Participants who live alone can do whatever they need to make the house feel like a home. In sharehouses, participants will need to consult on common areas but can still have their own rooms how they want them. Feeling truly at home has significant mental benefits and encourages participants to take more ownership of their daily tasks.
In addition, those with mobility challenges or certain access requirements are placed in highly accessible houses that suit their needs.
A variety of living arrangements
Supported Independent Living offers many different living arrangements. Some people prefer to live on their own, and if they are capable of doing so, this is encouraged. Others prefer living with another person and might choose a duplex home or sharehouse. While it comes down to home vacancies and availability, in many cases, participants have a good level of choice in their living arrangements.
More options and control
Finally, being able to live independently gives people more control over how they live. Ultimately, this is what SIL is all about. Giving people the freedom to do things their own way, while being able to easily access the help they need. Some people living with a disability can manage all of their housework and cooking but may need some help getting to medical appointments. Others may require more high-intensity care. Everybody is different, but thanks to Supported Independent Living, all participants can enjoy their best quality of life – on their own terms.
