What is Supported Independent Living?

Supported Independent Living (SIL) enables individuals with disabilities to live independently by offering personalised in-home support. Unlike Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), which focuses on accessible housing, SIL prioritises daily assistance to foster autonomy and community engagement. Wish Health & Disability Services delivers these tailored supports, helping people lead independent lives within their communities.

Importance of SIL

The importance of Supported Independent Living in modern healthcare and social services cannot be overstated. It represents a significant shift in how we approach care and support for vulnerable populations. Consider the following key points:

• Alignment with Person-Centred Care:
  SIL aligns with the growing emphasis on person-centred care and human rights in healthcare.
• Cost-Effective Alternative:
  It offers a cost-effective alternative to institutional care, potentially reducing the burden on healthcare systems.
• Social Inclusion:
  SIL promotes social inclusion and community integration, addressing isolation often experienced in traditional care settings.
• Life Skills Development:
  This model supports families in developing life skills and personal growth, fostering long-term independence.
• Flexibility and Adaptability:
  It provides a flexible framework for very high support needs that can adapt to changing needs, ensuring sustainable support over time.
• Improved Mental Health:
  SIL contributes to improved mental health outcomes by promoting autonomy and self-esteem.

Supported Independent Living stands out as a crucial component in creating more inclusive, empowering, and practical support workers and systems for those who need support workers around them as we continue to evolve our approach to care. Given the significant role of SIL in modern care, it’s crucial to understand its key elements.

Core Components of SIL

The core components of Supported Independent Living (SIL) encompass a comprehensive range of services and supports designed to enable individuals with disabilities to live as independently as possible. These key elements include:

1. Accommodation support: SIL assists in finding and maintaining suitable housing options, including shared accommodations or individual living arrangements tailored to the person’s needs and preferences.
2. Personal care assistance: Support with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and medication management is a crucial aspect of SIL services.
3. Household management: SIL offers help with cleaning, laundry, meal planning and preparation, and general home maintenance to ensure a safe and comfortable living environment.
4. Skill development: SIL focuses on building and enhancing life skills. It aims to increase independence in various areas. These include budgeting, cooking, using public transportation, and social interaction.
5. Community engagement: SIL facilitates participation in community activities, social events, and recreational pursuits to promote inclusion and build social connections.
6. Health and well-being support: Coordination of healthcare services, therapy appointments, and promotion of overall physical and mental well-being are integral components of SIL.
7. 24/7 support availability: Depending on individual needs, SIL can provide round-the-clock assistance to ensure safety and address emergencies.
8. Personalised support planning: SIL services are tailored to each individual’s unique needs, goals, and preferences, with regular reviews and adjustments to ensure ongoing effectiveness.

These core components create a comprehensive support system. It empowers individuals with disabilities to live with greater autonomy. At the same time, it provides necessary assistance for them to thrive in their own home or chosen living environment. While these components form the foundation of SIL, the service can be delivered through various living arrangements to suit individual needs.

Supported Independent Living Options

Supported Independent Living (SIL) offers various accommodation options to meet different needs and preferences.

1. Shared Housing

• Individuals live in a shared home with other residents, each having their own bedroom but sharing common areas such as the kitchen and living room.
• Support staff can assist with daily tasks and ensure a harmonious living environment.

2. Individual Apartments

• Individuals live in their own apartments, allowing for maximum privacy and independence.
• Support is provided as needed, tailored to the individual’s schedule and requirements.

3. Group Homes

• Similar to shared housing, it is typically smaller and often accommodates fewer residents.
• Provides a family-like atmosphere with personalised support and shared responsibilities.

4. Supported Accommodation Complexes

• Larger facilities offer a combination of private living spaces and communal areas.
• These complexes often provide more comprehensive support services and amenities on-site, such as healthcare and recreational activities.

Choosing the right SIL accommodation is essential for ensuring a supportive and comfortable living environment that promotes independence and quality of life. Regardless of the chosen living arrangement, SIL offers support services tailored to individual needs.

Types of Support Provided in SIL

Supported Independent Living (SIL) provides various support services to help individuals with disabilities live as independently as possible.

Here are the key types of support typically provided in SIL.

1. In-house Support Staff Options

• Drop-in support: Staff visits at scheduled times to assist with specific tasks.
• 24/7 support with sleepover: Round-the-clock support is available, including overnight care.

2. Daily Living Skills Assistance

a) Personal care:

• Assistance with showering, dressing, and personal hygiene
• Help with grooming and maintaining appearance

b) Housekeeping:

• Support with grocery shopping and meal planning
• Assistance with cooking and food preparation
• Help with cleaning, laundry, and general home maintenance

c) Social skills development:

• Support to build and maintain relationships
• Assistance with community engagement and participation in activities

d) Budgeting and financial management:

• Help with managing personal finances
• Support with budgeting and bill payments

3. External Support

a) Transportation assistance:

• Help with using public transportation
• Arranging or providing transportation to appointments and activities

b) Appointment management:

• Assistance scheduling and keeping track of medical appointments
• Support attending appointments and communicating with healthcare providers

4. Additional Supports

Such supports often provided in SIL include:

• Medication management
• Behaviour support and implementation of behaviour support plans
• Skill development to enhance independence
• Support to access education, employment, or volunteer opportunities
• Assistance with communication and use of assistive technologies
• Overnight supervision and emergency response

The level and type of high support are tailored to each individual’s needs, goals, and NDIS plan. SIL aims to promote independence while ensuring necessary support is available to enhance the quality of life and community participation. Once you understand the types of support available, the next step is selecting the most suitable SIL accommodation.

Choosing the Right SIL Accommodation

Selecting the right Supported Independent Living (SIL) accommodation is crucial for ensuring a comfortable and supportive living environment. Consider the following factors to make an informed decision:

1. Needs and Preferences:
   • Required support level (daily assistance, 24/7 care)
   • Preferred living arrangement (shared, individual, group home)
   • Alignment with lifestyle, routines, and long-term goals
2. Location:
   • Proximity to family, work, and community services
   • Access to public transport and recreational areas
   • Safety of the neighbourhood
3. Cost:
   • Affordability within NDIS funding and personal budget
   • Understanding of all associated costs (rent, utilities, support services)
   • Options for shared costs in group settings
4. Support Services:
   • Availability of necessary services and specialised care
   • Staff qualifications, experience, and approach to promoting independence
   • Flexibility to adapt services as needs change
5. Environment:
   • Safety features and accessibility modifications
   • Overall atmosphere, comfort, and potential for privacy
   • Compatibility with your lifestyle and personal needs
6. Social Aspects:
   • Opportunities for social interaction and community engagement
   • Compatibility with potential housemates (if applicable)
   • Policies on visitors and personal space
7. Provider Reputation and Policies:
   • Track record, complaint procedures, and feedback from current residents
   • Policies on personal belongings, pets, and daily routines
8. Trial and Transition:
   • Availability of trial stays to experience the accommodation
   • Policies for transitioning between different levels of support or accommodation types

If possible, visit potential accommodations in person. Consider short-term stays to assess suitability. Consult with your support coordinator, case manager, or trusted advisors for guidance in making this important decision. While choosing the right accommodation is crucial, it’s equally important to understand who qualifies for these services.

Who is Eligible for SIL?

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is designed for individuals who need assistance to live independently.

• Age: Generally, individuals must be adults (18 years or older).
• Disability: Must have a recognised disability that affects daily living activities.
• Support Needs: Requires support to live independently, but not 24/7 intensive care.
• NDIS Participant: Often, eligibility is tied to participating in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

Assessment Process

1. Initial Consultation: An initial meeting to discuss needs and goals.
2. Functional Assessment: Evaluates daily living skills and support requirements.
3. Personalised Plan: Development of a tailored support plan based on the assessment.

Trained professionals conduct the assessments, considering each individual’s unique needs, preferences, and goals. Once eligibility is established, the next step is navigating the application process.

How to Apply for SIL

Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process:

1. Research and Choose a Provider: Look for SIL providers that meet your needs.
2. Initial Contact: Contact the provider for more information and express interest in SIL.
3. Schedule an Assessment: Arrange a meeting with the provider to assess your needs and suitability.
4. Assessment Meeting: Participate in the assessment, providing information about your support needs and goals.
5. Review and Approval: The provider will review the assessment and inform you of the decision.
6. Develop a Support Plan: If approved, work with the provider to create a personalised support plan.

Tips for Preparing for the Assessment:

1. Gather Documentation: Collect relevant medical records, NDIS plans, and other documents that outline your disability and support needs.
2. List Your Needs and Goals: Prepare a list of your daily living requirements and personal goals to discuss during the assessment.
3. Ask Questions: Prepare questions about the services, support levels, and any concerns.
4. Be Honest and Detailed: Communicate your needs, preferences, and any challenges you face to ensure an accurate assessment.

After successfully applying for SIL, understanding the funding structure is essential for effective service utilisation.

SIL Funding

SIL funding through the NDIS covers specific supports while excluding certain costs. Here’s an overview of what the SIL support funding includes, what it doesn’t cover, and how it relates to NDIS plans and budgets:

What SIL Funding Covers:

• Personal care assistance (e.g., bathing, dressing, grooming)
• Household tasks (e.g., cleaning, laundry, meal preparation)
• Skill development for daily living activities
• 24/7 support and supervision as needed
• Assistance with medication management
• Support for community engagement and social activities
• Overnight supervision

What SIL Funding Doesn’t Cover:

• Rent or mortgage payments
• Groceries and food costs
• Utilities (e.g., electricity, gas, water)
• General household items and furnishings
• Transport costs
• Personal expenses (e.g., clothing, entertainment)
• Medical expenses not related to disability support

NDIS Plan and SIL Budget:

Understanding how SIL funding works within the NDIS plan is crucial for managing support services effectively.

• SIL Funding: Included in the Core Supports budget of an NDIS plan.
• Assessment: Based on support needs, frequency, and complexity.
• Budget Calculation: Typically annual, but reviewed if circumstances change.
• Provider Choice: Funding is not tied to a specific provider.
• Service Bookings: Two bookings — one for the annual plan value and another for irregular supports.

Management and Communication:

• Communication: Funding decisions are shared with the participant, provider, and support coordinator.
• Support Coordination: Participants receive funding from a support coordinator to implement their plan.
• Budget Extensions: May be automatically extended if reassessment is delayed.
• Provider Responsibility: Must deliver support within the approved funding.

Participant Responsibilities:

• Living Expenses: Participants are responsible for daily living costs
• Financial Management: Supported by NDIS in managing finances

It’s important to note that while SIL funding covers significant support needs, participants are still responsible for their daily living expenses. The NDIS aims to support independent living while encouraging participants to manage their finances and living costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for Supported Independent Living at Wish Health?

Wish Health provides SIL services to adults with disabilities, chronic health conditions, or other support needs who can live independently with assistance. Eligibility is determined through an individual assessment.

How is SIL different from assisted living facilities?

SIL allows individuals to live in their own homes or chosen community settings with personalised support. Assisted living facilities typically offer standardised services in a communal setting.

What types of support does Wish Health offer in its SIL program?

We offer various services, including personal care assistance, life skills training, medication management, social support, and help with daily activities.

How is the level of support determined?

Our team conducts a comprehensive assessment to understand the individual’s needs, goals, and preferences and then creates a personalised support plan that can be adjusted as needs change.

Is 24/7 support available if needed?

Yes, Wish Health can provide round-the-clock support for those who require it.

How does SIL promote community integration?

We actively support participation in community activities, help develop social connections, support people, and assist with accessing local resources and services.