The NDIS is designed to allow participants to have control over their NDIS plan and make empowered decisions when it comes to their support system. The NDIA encourages the practice of supported decision making. Supported decision making provides NDIS participants with the ability to make decisions that impact their own life - a fundamental human right documented by the United Nations.
We’ve compiled some handy information on support decision making to help providers and support workers assist in ensuring supported decision making is practised at every stage of the NDIS journey.
What is Supported Decision Making?
Supported decision making refers to providing support to someone who may find it difficult to make decisions, for various reasons.
As some people with disabilities may have been denied the ability to make decisions in the past, decision making is often a new skill many NDIS participants need to learn. Supported decision making is designed to help and guide participants in making informed decisions about their lives.
Whether it’s help analysing possible outcomes of a decision, or assistance in considering risks and benefits of a decision, supported decision making allows participants to make educated, well-informed decisions of their own with the assistance of others.
What kind of decisions are we talking about?
All decisions! People with a disability have a right to make choices about their lifestyle. From what they want to wear and what time they want to sleep, to where they live and who they socialise with, NDIS participants should be regularly asked their wishes and decisions, no matter how large or small the decision may be.
While daily decisions make up a bulk of decisions, larger ones should also be considered. Whether it’s a decision in regards to a legal matter, consenting to medical treatment or how their finances are managed, NDIS participants wants and wishes should be uplifted and supported when it comes to making these decisions.
How do I facilitate supported decision making?
There are various ways to support someone making a decision. We’ve listed a few key examples:
Providing further information regarding the decision
Talking about the pros and cons, and the benefits of each choice
Connecting with someone who has also made a similar decision
If possible, try out the options before making a decision
It’s important to note that the way a decision is supported will be determined by why the person needs assistance in making a decision.
The team at Bright Plan Management are here to take the stress out of decisions regarding NDIS plans and management. Call us today to find out more