Working with a support worker can open up more opportunities to do what you love, discover new interests and work towards your goals – your way.
Support workers aren’t there to take over. They’re there to back you up, provide support when you need it and help make the day run smoothly. Whether it’s getting to the gym, joining a new group or heading to a community event, having someone in your corner can make a big difference.
Here are five ways a support worker can help you get more out of your time.
1. Getting out and about.
Sometimes the hardest part of trying something new is getting started. A support worker can help you plan ahead, manage the details and feel more confident stepping into a new space.
They can:
- Help organise your outing
- Navigate public transport or provide transport
- Support you in unfamiliar places
- Make sure everything runs safely and smoothly.
2. Doing more of what you enjoy.
Support workers are there to support your choices, not make them for you. That means you get to decide how you want to spend your time – whether that’s going to a movie, checking out a local market or heading to the skatepark.
Together, you can turn plans into action and make time for the things that matter to you.
3. Trying something new.
Whether you want to explore a new hobby, join a club or try a different sport, a support worker can help take the pressure off.
They can assist with:
- Researching options and local opportunities
- Helping with scheduling or bookings
- Creating a plan so the experience feels manageable, not overwhelming.
Trying something new is always easier when you’ve got someone backing you up.
4. Building skills and confidence.
The more you get out and do, the more confident and independent you’re likely to feel. Working with a support worker can give you the space to build life skills in real-world settings, at your pace.
That might mean:
- Learning how to navigate transport options
- Building social connections
- Managing time and money on an outing
- Practising communication and decision-making.
Ellen’s story.
“My support worker comes every Monday. Sometimes we do things at home, but often we go out. We head to the gym together and if I need anything, we stop at the shops. She’s also supported me to get a job, like when I applied for my job at Big W. She came with me to hand in my resume and gave me the confidence to go through the process.
Having that support has helped me feel more comfortable in social situations and build skills I use every day. I’ve now been working at Big W for seven years and I’m learning to do more things on my own so I can be independent and reach my longer-term goal of living by myself.”
– Ellen, 26, Leap in! Member.
5. Creating experiences that work for you.
Everyone has different energy levels, comfort zones and preferences. A support worker can help shape outings or activities to suit what works best for you.
Small things like choosing the best time of day, mixing familiar routines with something new, or even picking music for the car ride can all make the experience more enjoyable.
NDIS support for social participation.
If you have goals related to social participation, building independence or getting involved in new activities, you may be able to include funding for support workers in your NDIS Plan.
Social support may be available through:
- Core Supports: Assistance with Social and Community Participation
- Capacity Building: Increased Social and Community Participation.
Good to know: The NDIA will not pay for the cost of social activities, but for the support required to participate in them.
Support that fits your life.
Support workers are not there to supervise or take charge. They’re part of your team, focused on helping you reach your goals, your way.
Want some tips for finding the right person? Check out our article: 8 tips for choosing a support worker. If you’d like to explore support workers near you, visit Find an independent support worker.
And if you need help with your NDIS Plan, the Leap in! Crew is here to support you. Call us on 1300 05 78 78 or chat with us online.
