The NDIS Plan Review is a critical juncture where participants ensure their plan continues to effectively meet their evolving needs and goals. Approaching this meeting prepared can transform a potentially daunting task into an empowering opportunity for a truly supportive plan. Here are five essential steps to a successful NDIS Plan Review:
- Assess & Reflect: What’s Working, What’s Not? Before anything else, take time to profoundly evaluate your current NDIS plan. Review each support and service you’ve received. Ask yourself: Is this support still relevant? Has it helped me achieve my goals? Are there gaps in my current funding, or new needs that have emerged due to changes in my health, living situation, or aspirations? Documenting these observations, including successes and frustrations, forms the foundation of your review.
- Gather Your Evidence: Reports & Statements. The NDIS is evidence-based. Collect all relevant documentation that supports your current and future needs. This includes recent reports from therapists (occupational, speech, physio), doctors, psychologists, or any other health professionals. If you employ support workers, consider asking for a statement detailing the support they provide and its impact. Don’t underestimate the power of a personal statement outlining your experiences and how proposed supports will help you achieve your goals.
- Define Your Goals: Short-term & Long-term. The NDIS is fundamentally goal-driven. Clearly articulate your personal goals for the next plan period. Think about what you want to achieve in your daily life, community participation, employment, education, or independent living. Ensure these goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Link each proposed support you’re requesting to how it will help you achieve one of these identified goals.
- Prepare Your Pitch: Be Ready to Communicate. Organise your thoughts and documents into a clear, concise presentation. You might create a simple agenda or a summary sheet to guide your discussion with the NDIS planner. Practice explaining your needs and goals aloud. Consider bringing a trusted support person, such as a family member, friend, or support coordinator, to advocate on your behalf, take notes, or simply offer moral support during the meeting.
- Engage & Advocate: During and After the Review. During the review meeting, be an active participant. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek clarification, and confidently explain your perspective. Clearly communicate your needs, the evidence supporting them, and how your proposed supports align with your goals. After the meeting, carefully review your new NDIS plan once it’s issued. If you believe there are significant errors or your plan doesn’t adequately meet your needs, understand your right to request a Statement of Reasons for the decision and consider the NDIS appeals process.
By diligently following these five steps, you can significantly increase your chances of securing an NDIS plan that truly empowers you to live your best life.