About

Why was the NDIS introduced?

Before the NDIS was introduced, disability services in Australia had been a lottery.

The funding you received depended on how, when and where you acquired your disability, as well as where you lived. Some people got enough funding, some people got none! Really, it was all just a bit unfair!

So, after they held an inquiry, the Federal Government agreed that people with a disability deserved a fairer system. And, more control!

And in July 2013, the NDIS was introduced.

What supports can you receive through the NDIS?

The NDIS provides funding for lots of different things!

It could be employment, early intervention, accommodation, doing activities, and more.

You will get to choose when and where you receive these supports and which disability service providers you work with.

When will the NDIS be rolled out?

The NDIS is currently being rolled out across Australia under the management of the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) – the agency responsible for delivering the scheme.

The rollout is due to be completed by 2020.

Who is eligible for the NDIS?

Eligibility for the NDIS depends on a few different things such as:

• Location: You need to have been living in an area where the scheme is already rolled out
• Age: You need to be under 65 years at the time of your application
• Residency: You need to be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or a New Zealand citizen who holds a Protected Special Category Visa
• Disability: You must have a permanent disability that significantly affects how you can communicate, move, care for yourself, or manage your life.
• Early Intervention: You might be eligible if early intervention would substantially improve your functioning, or delay or decrease a decline in functioning, for you or your child.

Disability services

At Aruma (formerly House with No Steps and The Tipping Foundation), our disability services are never one-size-fits-all. You know how to live your best life, and we’re here to help you to do just that. Our focus is always on You First.

Supported Independent Living (SIL)

We can help you find a home sweet home with our Supported Independent Living (SIL) services.

What is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is sometimes called shared accommodation.

SIL is an NDIS support where a person with a disability lives with other people. You will also receive support with everyday tasks like cleaning, cooking and personal care.

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is assessed and funded separately to SIL.

Vacancies available now!

At UDCare NSW, we have a number of SIL and SDA vacancies which could be a perfect fit for you.

If you have an eye on a property, we would love to show you around. You will also get the chance to talk to our team about the type of supports you are looking for.

SIL and SDA at UDCARE NSW

Our UDCARE NSW team we can help you find a home to call your own. Here’s what you need to know about our Supported Independent Living (SIL) and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) services.

What support will UDCARE NSW provide me?

All UDCARE NSW properties provide our customers with a comfortable and secure home.

We will also support you with day-to-day tasks like:

• Cleaning and laundry
• Nutrition and cooking
• Personal care such as showering and dressing
• Going to appointments
• Taking medication
• Taking up a hobby
• Learning to catch public transport.

Will I be included in household decisions?

Yes! All our customers are part of the household routines and decisions.

This can be done in different ways depending what each household prefers. As an example, in some houses, the housemates choose to sit down for a meeting each week to make decisions about their home.

What type of properties does UDCARE NSW offer?

We have a wide range of shared properties including apartments, villas and houses.

We will work with you to find something that’s just right.

Who will I be living with?

We know it’s important that people click and get along.

Tell us what you like or don’t like in a housemate, and we’ll do our best to match you with people who tick your boxes and have similar interests.

Do you provide Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)?

We have a wide range of properties for people with very high support needs.

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) will be funded separately to Supported Independent Living in your NDIS plan, as a capital support.

NDIS Support Categories

Supported Independent Living

Supported Independent Living is funded under Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Life in your NDIS plan.

The NDIS does not fund the cost of rent, board, transport, and other day-to-day expenses such as food and activities.

Specialist Disability Accommodation

This funding is for people with very high needs who need specialist housing.

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is assessed and funded separately to SIL through Capital Supports – Specialist Disability Accommodation.

Please note: We bill in line with the NDIS Price Guide, which generally increases annually.

Individualised Living Options (ILO)

What are Individualised Living Options (ILO)?

There’s a new NDIS support in town – Individualised Living Options (ILO).

ILO is an NDIS support that helps people with a disability live in a home of their choice with support. You can choose how you want to live, where you live, and who you live with.

ILO doesn’t provide the house or dwelling itself, but rather a flexible package of supports in your home which are just right for you.

An apartment on your own in the city with drop-in support? A house in the suburbs with friends and shared support? There are so many options and the choice is yours!

Who can I live with?

Unlike a group home, with ILO you have complete control of who you live with. You can share a home with friends, housemates, live with a host family, or live on your own. Here are just some of the choices available:

• Live alone
  • You can live alone in your own home with a package of supports such as drop-in support and on-call support.
• Co-resident
  • A person providing support can live with you in your home. They may receive a payment or subsidised rent.
• Host arrangement
  • You can live with a host family who provides support and a family environment. Some of the costs may be covered out of your NDIS Plan.
• Living together
  • You can live with a friend, family member, or partner. If they’re also an NDIS participant, you could also share support.

No matter who you choose to live with, it’s the chance to form strong relationships with those around you.

Does UDCARE NSW provide ILO Services?

Yes! With UDCARE NSW ILO services, we work with you to really understand what supports you need and what your perfect home looks like. From this, we can help work out what supports are just right for you!

This is also called ‘Exploration and Design’. This is the first stage, and during this step, your Exploration and Design Co-ordinator works with you to:

• understand and explore where and how you want to live
• understand your strengths
• find out what’s possible and recommend the best living options for you.

It’s the building block to really work out what you need and what you want. It will take around 3-months as it’s important to get it right. So, get the ball rolling today!

Stage 2, which is carrying out your plan to make it a reality, is coming soon!

Where does UDCARE NSW provide ILO?

Our ILO services are currently available in NSW, ACT, Victoria and Queensland.

I’m interested in ILO, what do I do now?

That’s great news! The next step is to get in touch with us. Our local team of experienced staff are here to help answer your questions and work with you every step of the way.

Social and Community Participation

Live your best life and dare to try a new hobby, play sport, take a class, hang out with friends, and much more!

What are Social and Community Participation services?

Under the NDIS, Social and Community services are about supporting people with a disability to take part in their community.

This is just another way of saying it’s about getting out and about, meeting people, and trying new things!

That might be signing up for an art class, going on a holiday, learning to play an instrument, or many other activities.

Social and Community Participation at UDCARE NSW

At UDCARE NSW there are so many ways for you to meet people, try new things and have fun!

What activities will I get to do?

It’s completely up to you. What would you like to try?

You might decide to join a club, play sport, or go to the gym. Maybe you want to try a new hobby such as dancing, surfing, drama, photography, or music classes.

Or, does hanging out with some friends at BBQs or movie nights sound more like your thing?

The choice is yours!

If you like, we can also help you to volunteer for a worthy cause such as Meals on Wheels or Vinnies.

Does UDCARE NSW offer group programs?

Yes, we do. You might know these as centre based programs or day services where you can come and join us for the day.

Sometimes you could head out for activities such as swimming or horse-riding, or you might choose to do an art or music class instead.

You decide!

Can UDCARE NSW help me go on holidays?

Yes, we sure can. If you want to get away for a few days and explore, we can help you plan a holiday!

And, if you need support while you’re away, we can connect you with organisations that specialise in this service.

Keep in mind: The NDIS does not cover costs of any airfares, tickets, accommodation, and activities for both yourself and any support staff.

Does UDCARE NSW offer any camps?

Yes, we have an amazing camp in Victoria for people with a disability.

You’ll be able to play games, go bushwalking, sing songs around the campfire, and get back to nature!

You can also explore the local area and maybe even see the penguin parade at Philip Island, visit a wildlife sanctuary, or go strawberry picking!

And of course, with trained and experienced disability support staff, you can relax knowing your support needs will be met.

NDIS Support Categories

Social and Community Participation services are funded under one of the following in your NDIS plan.

• Core – Assistance with Social & Community Participation
• Capacity Building – Increased Social & Community Participation

Chat to our team on 1300000000 about how you might use funding from other support categories.

Please note: We bill in line with the NDIS Price Guide, which generally increases annually.

Short term accommodation (respite)

Our Short Term Accommodation services are a home away from home for people with a disability.

What is Short Term Accommodation and Assistance?

Under the NDIS, Short Term Accommodation and Assistance (STAA) replaces what used to be called respite for people with a disability.

Short Term Accommodation and Assistance can be both:

• A short stay in a property with other people
• Additional support in your own home.

UDCARE NSW Short Term Accommodation properties

At UDCARE NSW we have a number of welcoming Short Term Accommodation properties for people with a disability across New South Wales, Victoria and the ACT.

All our properties are close to local beaches, parks, events and attractions.

Short Term Accommodation and Assistance at UDCARE NSW

Our Short Term Accommodation properties are a home away from home for people with a disability!

What activities will I get to do?

Our Short Term Accommodation services can give you the chance to meet new people and try new activities.

This can be seeing the latest movie, going out for a meal, going to the beach, checking out a local attraction, or playing your favourite sport.

No matter your age or tastes – there’s something for you.

Chat to us about the different local options.

What support will UDCARE NSW provide me?

All our properties are welcoming and well-equipped for people with a disability.

Our staff will also make sure your support needs are met.

This could include:

• Nutrition
• Meal planning and cooking
• Personal care such as showering and dressing
• Taking medication.

If you prefer not to stay in one of our properties, we can also provide support in your own home.

How long can I stay in one of UDCARE NSW properties?

You can stay for the day, overnight, a weekend, a holiday, or longer.

An important side note: make sure you check your NDIS plan to see what funding you have included.

Does UDCARE NSW have Short Term Accommodation services for children and adults?

Yes! We have both services for children and services for adults.

This means you will be staying with others who are about the same age.

NDIS Support Categories

Short Term Accommodation and Assistance is funded under Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Life in your NDIS plan.

If you need longer term accommodation, other options such as Supported Independent Living are more likely to be included in your plan.

Please note: We bill in line with the NDIS Price Guide, which generally increases annually.

Daily Living Skills

Do you need support with your to-do-list or your daily jobs? Let’s get them done together!

What are Daily Living Skills?

Daily Living Skills are the skills we use in everyday life. Skills like cooking, cleaning, using money, catching public transport, the list goes on!

Supports with Daily Living Skills can help people with a disability learn to do these tasks on their own, as well as lend a hand when needed.

Daily Living Skills services at Aruma

At UDCARE NSW no matter what support you need or what you want to learn, we can help.

What tasks can UDCARE NSW help me with?

No matter what you need, we can support you with lots of different tasks, such as:

• Daily routines
• Cooking and cleaning
• Personal care
• Shopping
• Money and budgeting
• Taking medication
• Volunteering and working
• Joining a group or club
• Tips to make friends
• Catching public transport
• Working with Government services.

Can UDCARE NSW staff come to my home?

We can! Our Support Workers can come to your home for short periods of time to help you out with tasks such as morning and evening routines and much more.

Our team can provide anywhere from several hours per week to several hours per day. But it’s best to first check what support your NDIS plan includes.

Can UDCARE NSW help me learn how to do these tasks on my own?

We sure can. A large part of our service is helping you learn to do some, or even all, of these tasks on your own.

Let us know what you want to learn and we’ll make it happen.

Over time, this may mean you need less support from us or other service providers.

Will I learn one-on-one or in groups?

It’s your choice! You might choose to learn as part of a group, where you can meet new people.

Or, you might decide that you learn better on your own. Just let us know.

Can UDCARE NSW help me travel on my own?

Yes, we can. If one of your goals is to travel on your own, we can help make this happen.

This might be catching public transport, understanding road safety, or getting your driver’s licence.

NDIS support categories

Daily Living Skills are funded under one of the following in your NDIS plan.

• Core – Assistance with Daily Life
• Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living Skills

Please note: We bill in line with the NDIS Price Guide, which generally increases annually.

Children’s Services

Our services for children with a disability put you and your family first. You know what’s best for you and your family. At UDCARE NSW we’re just here to help you make it happen. Our focus is always on You. First.

Early Childhood Intervention

What is Early Childhood Intervention?

Early Childhood Intervention is for kids who have a developmental delay. A developmental delay is when a child takes a bit longer to reach milestones such as moving, learning, talking, or behaving.

Some kids with a disability such as autism, hearing loss, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other disabilities are more likely to experience a developmental delay, but the cause isn’t always known.

Early Childhood Intervention helps improve a child’s development through a range of services. With these services, kids often see huge improvements and go to school with little or no extra support.

Early Childhood Intervention at UDCARE NSW

At UDCARE, our Early Childhood Intervention services are for children aged 0 – 7 years.

What Early Childhood Intervention services does UDCARE NSW provide?

Depending on what you need, you will have a team of early intervention specialists including Special Education Teachers, Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, and Speech Pathologists.

This team will work together to deliver the services, which is sometimes called a Transdisciplinary Approach.

What will my child learn?

Well, this comes down to what they might need! But there are a whole range of skills they can learn.

A Speech Pathologist can help a child communicate, eat and swallow. While a Special Education Teacher can help to teach language, reading and writing, numeracy, social skills and more.

If your child has trouble with strength, balance and mobility, a Physiotherapist can also help with this.

While Occupational Therapists, or OTs, can help kids do everyday activities such as grasping and releasing toys, hand eye coordination, using cutlery, getting dressed, and dealing with anger. They can also look at what equipment a child might need such as a wheelchair or other aids.

Can you help my child start day-care or school?

Yes we can! We know starting something new can be stressful for families, and it’s important you have the right support.

We can help families to plan for the change, apply for funding, visit the school before they start, and help throughout that transition period.

Are parents and families able to be involved?

Yes! We love when families want to be involved and feel comfortable talking to us about their child’s support.

We encourage you to speak to our staff about any questions you have either during or after our sessions.

Can Aruma provide family counselling and support?

Absolutely. Our team specialise in providing counselling and support.

We can help your family understand your child’s disability or delay, how this might affect how they learn, and any supports they might need.

We can also connect you with other families, support networks, and even other services.

Will I have a key contact or a Key Worker?

Yes! You will have one main point of contact called as Key Worker.

Your Key Worker will help coordinate your services by managing your Early Childhood Intervention team.

Find out more about the Key Worker model.

Therapy and Clinical Services

Services for children and adults with a disability who need a bit of extra support.

Occupational Therapy at UDCARE NSW

At UDCARE NSW our Occupational Therapists (or OTs) help people with a disability to be as independent as possible.

This may mean learning new skills or finding new ways of doing everyday activities.

What can occupational therapy help me learn?

If you find it hard to do everyday tasks, we can help you to find new ways to do these. This could include:

• Getting dressed
• Using a pencil or pen and writing
• Showering
• Brushing your teeth
• Cooking
• Using a knife and fork and eating

We can also help you improve what is called your gross motor skills. This just means we can help you with everything from walking and climbing stairs to hopping, jumping, and catching and throwing a ball.

Can an Occupational Therapist help me make changes to my home?

Yes! If you need, our Occupational Therapists can work out what changes to your home (or environment) might make life a bit easier.

This could include changes to:

• Bathroom and kitchen layouts
• Flooring such as non-slip options
• Widening doorways
• Installing ramps, stair lifts, rails and hoists
• Changes to heating/cooling and lighting

I need new equipment, can an Occupational Therapist help me?

Yes, they can. First, our Occupational Therapists will work with you to find out what equipment you need.

We can then suggest and prescribe equipment including wheelchairs, shower chairs, commodes, pressure relief devices, specialist beds, and mealtime equipment.

Does UDCARE NSW offer sensory therapy?

We do. We understand that some people find it hard to understand or respond to loud noises, bright lights, textures, tastes, or other sensory inputs.

If you find this challenging, our Occupational Therapists can help.

We will first do an assessment and then help you find ways to manage sensory inputs so you feel calm and settled.

Funding

NDIS Participants

The NDIS provides funding for Therapy and Clinical Supports.

The most common NDIS categories of support include Improved Daily Living, Improved Relationships, and Support Coordination.

Medicare: Chronic Disease Management Plan

We are registered providers of Medicare and are able to offer a subsidy to the cost of services. Occupational Therapy may be covered under this plan.

Private customers

We also welcome private customers, both individuals and organisations.

Please note: We bill in line with the NDIS Price Guide, which generally increases annually.

Speech Pathology

Did you know Speech Pathologists don’t just help people talk? We can also help you use assistive devices, swallow and more.

Speech Pathology services at UDCARE NSW

At UDCARE NSW our Speech Pathologists can help people with a disability communicate, use assistive devices, eat and swallow, and learn social skills.

How can speech pathology help me communicate?

There are many ways a person can communicate. It might be speech, but it might be using an assistive device.

UD Care Speech Pathologists can help you:

• Communicate with others
• Use and understand words and sentences
• Improve speech clarity
• Listen, understand and follow directions
• Use communication devices and aids

Communication is not only about words either. We can help you to learn social skills such as making friends, chatting, and building your confidence.

How can speech pathologist help with mealtimes?

We can work with you to help make sure mealtimes are enjoyable and safe.

This can include help with:

• Coughing, choking or gagging
• Difficulty chewing
• Pain while eating or drinking
• Fussy or limited eating
• Infant feeding including breastfeeding, bottle feeding and solid foods

Funding

NDIS Participants

The NDIS provides funding for Therapy and Clinical Supports.

The most common NDIS categories of support include Improved Daily Living, Improved Relationships, and Support Coordination.

Medicare: Chronic Disease Management Plan

UDCARE NSW are registered providers of Medicare and are able to offer a subsidy to the cost of services. Speech Pathology may be covered under this plan.

Private customers

We also welcome private customers, both individuals and organisations.

Please note: We bill in line with the NDIS Price Guide, which generally increases annually.

Behavioural Support

Behavioural Support works to understand why a person may display inappropriate, challenging, or unsafe behaviour.

Behavioural Support at UDCARE NSW

At UDCARE NSW we can help to understand why someone with a disability may display inappropriate, challenging, or unsafe behaviours, and work together to find a solution.

How will UDCARE NSW find out why a person is using a behaviour?

To begin, we will put together an assessment to help us understand what a person is communicating through different actions.

As part of this we may:

• Look at relevant reports
• Talk with the person and their family or networks
• Spend time with a person in their home, at school, at work, or out and about

What strategies or solutions will UDCARE NSW suggest?

What we suggest will depend on the person and their needs but there are lots of different strategies.

We might look at:

• Skills training so a person no longer needs to use certain behaviours
• Communication training
• Changes that could be made to the home or environment
• Ways to respond safely if the person does use a behaviour

Does UDCARE NSW provide Behavioural Support training?

Yes, we do!

Families and carers may need education and training around how to implement the recommended strategies. Our team can help make sure everyone understands the plan and that the plan is effective.

We can also provide training to small groups in the areas of:

• Sexuality and relationships
• Social skills development
• Anger management

Funding

NDIS Participants

The NDIS provides funding for Therapy and Clinical Supports.

The most common NDIS categories of support include Improved Daily Living, Improved Relationships, and Support Coordination.

Private customers

UDCARE NSW also welcome private customers, both individuals and organisations.

Please note: We bill in line with the NDIS Price Guide, which generally increases annually.