A Guide To Shared Supported Accommodation: What To Expect
When considering different NDIS accommodation options, Shared Supported Accommodation (SSA) is one of the most popular choices by far. Before searching for suitable NDIS housing in your chosen location, however, you must know what to expect.
Whether looking at shared supported accommodation for yourself or on behalf of a loved one, this simple guide is for you.
What Is Shared Supported Accommodation?
Shared supported accommodation is a type of assisted living arrangement designed for people living with disabilities. It is offered throughout Australia by independent registered NDIS providers.
They involve living in a group home with other people who live with disabilities. SSAs include private living spaces for individual residents as well as communal areas. One of the distinguishing features is that shared care teams are available on-site to provide 24/7 support to residents.
SSA carers may assist with medication, behavioural support, personal and hygiene care, and a range of related services. Their purpose is ultimately to provide care where required while simultaneously enriching lives and encouraging increased levels of independence.
Why Choose Shared Supported Accommodation?
When looking at different NDIS accommodation options, there are plenty of options to consider including individualised living option (IOL) arrangements and modifications to your existing home. However, shared supported accommodation is the preferred route for thousands of people living with disabilities in Australia. Here’s why;
- It allows you to remain independent while still having access to care and assistance as required.
- Support is available 24/7 and can extend to personal care, managing medication, and daily household tasks.
- There is a continued source of socialisation thanks to the other residents, thus removing isolation too.
- Shared supported accommodation also allows for flexible SIL plans that are tailored to personal requirements.
- There are many opportunities to develop new skills to promote increased confidence and independence at home.
SIL services provided in shared supported accommodation can additionally help residents grow skills to support independent lifestyles through job prospects and other matters outside of the home. In other words, it can significantly increase your quality of life.
How To Make The Most of Shared Supported Accommodation
Shared supported accommodation can deliver a plethora of benefits for the individual. However, to unlock the full benefits of this living situation, it’s vital for participants and/or their families to implement the steps to find the best SSA arrangement.
It is one of the most important decisions that you will ever make, but the right preparations will build the platform for a far better quality of life. Here are six simple steps to success:
1. Get the maximum financial support
There are many elements to consider when searching for shared supported accommodation, but the financial aspects will naturally play on your mind. Therefore, you must complete the NDIS eligibility assessment and gain the right level of support. If you are a level 2 candidate, for example, accepting level 1 support could cost you thousands of dollars annually.
Rather than being a matter of money, it is an issue that could potentially stop you from gaining the level of care that you truly deserve.
2. Consider the location and service provider
When moving into SSA housing, it’s important to remember that it’s not only the property and on-site facilities that matter. You must also take the location into account, especially if you wish to remain close to loved ones. Here at Soteria, we offer shared supported accommodation from Adelaide to Wollongong. In fact, we have homes in NSW, VIC, WA, SA, and TAS.
It is also best to confirm that the landlord and the support provider are the same company. Otherwise, it may cause unnecessary headaches down the line.
3. Know the facilities
Knowing that the facilities are aligned with your requirements not only allows you to move in with confidence, but also allows you to get the most out of your SSA from day one. The size of the bedroom should be a key feature while communal areas and outside spaces also deserve attention. Room sizes are particularly important if you wish to take possessions with you to the new home.
Understanding whether the facilities will help you live an independent life is vital too. Checking the bathroom/wetroom and kitchen accessibility should feature on the agenda.
4. Get to learn the rules and your rights
As a resident in shared supported accommodation, understanding the house rules is essential. This extends to visiting hours for guests, schedules for mealtimes, and procedures. You should also know your rights, including access to medication at the right times, privacy, nutritious food, respect, and independence for financial management and other living matters where possible.
You also have the right to a Tenancy Agreement and Statement of Rights and Duties, as well as the right to complain. The exact situation may vary depending on the territory.
5. Socialise
While there are many benefits to be gained from SSA living, the opportunity to socialise with other residents stands out as one of the best. Whether it’s playing games, watching movies, or enjoying group activities and learning doesn’t matter. Making friends and integrating into new surroundings is one of the most effective ways to maximise your quality of life when living in NDIS shared accommodation.
Furthermore, the social skills developed in the safe setting of your shared supported accommodation should translate to increased confidence elsewhere.
6. Work with your SSA carers
Finally, as well as establishing good relationships with other residents, it’s important to consider SSA carers. They aren’t only there to help with administering medicines and completing household duties. If you let them, they can become friends who also help you develop new skills and gain a better understanding of how to manage your conditions and continue to enjoy the best quality of life on a daily basis.
They can additionally help you find social activities, set life goals, or build your job prospects. This is one of the best ways to get more out of SSA living for years to come.
Only Use A Registered Provider
SSA living can be the ideal solution for people living with disabilities in Australia. However, it’s imperative that you partner with a registered NDIS provider. Aside from allowing you to use the NDIS funding scheme, it ensures that you get quality care that’s tailored to your needs. Anything less would be a missed opportunity.