SIL (Supported Independent Living) under the NDIS helps people with disabilities live more independently and enjoy fulfilling lives. A big part of this is personalised care, which means support is tailored to each person’s needs, goals, and preferences.
For NDIS participants in WA, personalised care isn’t just about daily help—it’s about building independence, confidence, and a better quality of life. In this guide, we’ll explain what personalised care looks like, why it matters, and how to find a provider that truly supports your unique journey.
What is Personalised Care in SIL Accommodation?
At its core, personalised care means placing the individual at the centre of their care plan. Instead of adopting a “one-size-fits-all” approach, personalised care involves designing support services that cater to a participant’s specific goals, strengths, and preferences within a shared living environment. Some key characteristics of personalised care include:
- Customised Daily Routines: Whether it’s morning exercises, meal preparation, or evening hobbies, participants are supported in ways that suit their schedules and preferences.
- Individualised Meal Plans: Dietary requirements and personal food preferences are taken into account to ensure both health and satisfaction.
- Skill-Building Activities: Participants are encouraged to actively develop practical and social skills, such as cooking, budgeting, or connecting with the community.
The staff in SIL accommodation play a pivotal role in delivering this care. By fostering trust, understanding individual needs, and offering consistent, high-quality support, they help participants achieve their goals within a safe and empowering environment.
Benefits of Personalised Care for NDIS Participants
When Supported Independent Living (SIL) accommodation is created with care and compassion, focusing on the unique needs of each person, it can have life-changing benefits for people in the NDIS. Let’s explore four key ways personalised SIL care can help participants lead happier, healthier, and more connected lives.
1. Building Independence
Personalised care helps participants learn important life skills so they can feel more confident and in control of their daily lives. This might mean learning how to cook a meal, keep track of medication, or use public transport. With the support of a caring worker who goes at their pace, participants can gain the skills they need to take charge of their routines.
For example, imagine someone who wants to shop for their own groceries. A personalised care plan would guide them step by step—first practising with help from a support worker, and eventually building the confidence to go on their own. By learning these skills, participants feel more independent and proud of their accomplishments.
2. Staying Healthy and Happy
Good health—both physical and emotional—is key to having a good life, and personalised care helps participants stay on track. Tailored plans can include preparing healthy meals, doing fun exercise activities like yoga or walking, and keeping up with doctor appointments.
But health isn’t just about the body. Feeling valued, supported, and understood is just as important. With personalised care, participants feel safe and cared for, which can make a big difference in their emotional well-being. For example, being able to talk to someone who listens and understands can help participants feel more calm and secure in their homes.
3. Making Friends and Feeling Included
Many people with disabilities struggle with feeling lonely, but SIL accommodation designed with personalised care helps participants connect with others. Building relationships is a big part of life, and participants are encouraged to get involved in their communities and make new friends.
This could mean going to a local craft class, joining a sports group, meeting neighbours, or celebrating birthdays and milestones with housemates. These activities help participants feel included and remind them they’re part of a bigger community.
4. Boosting Confidence and Self-Esteem
Reaching a goal, no matter how small, can feel amazing. Personalised care focuses on helping participants set and achieve their own goals, which builds confidence and self-belief over time. Whether it’s learning a new skill, working on a hobby, or overcoming a challenge, every success helps participants feel proud of themselves.
For example, imagine someone who loves painting but hasn’t had the chance to try it. Personalised care could set up art classes or provide supplies so they can practice at home. As they improve and create artwork, they not only feel joy but also realise that they can achieve their dreams with the right support.
Case Study: A Success Story from SIL Accommodation
Alex is a young man living with autism. Two years ago, he moved into a Supported Independent Living (SIL) program in WA. Before this, life wasn’t easy for Alex—he found daily routines hard to manage and felt nervous in social situations. He dreamed of being more independent and making friends but didn’t know where to start.
A Care Plan Just for Alex
When Alex joined the SIL program, his support team created a care plan just for him. They took the time to really get to know Alex—how he communicates, what he likes, and what makes him feel comfortable. Together, they worked on small but important goals, like learning to cook simple meals, keeping up with household chores, and joining a local art club where Alex could explore his love for creativity.
How Life Has Changed
Today, Alex has come so far. He can cook his own meals, keep track of his schedule all on his own, and has even made close friends at his art club. His confidence has grown so much that he now takes the lead in planning fun outings with his housemates.
Alex’s story shows just how much a little extra care, patience, and a personalised plan can change someone’s life. It’s amazing to see what’s possible when people are given the right support!
How to Choose the Right SIL Accommodation Provider
Choosing the right Supported Independent Living (SIL) provider is really important to make sure participants get the help they need in a way that works best for them. Here are some tips to guide your decision:
- Staff Training and Experience
Make sure the staff at the SIL provider are well-trained and have lots of experience helping people. This means they’ll know how to handle different situations and can give participants the care and support they need in a kind and professional way.
- How Many Staff Help Each Participant
Look for a provider with enough staff to give each person plenty of attention. If there aren’t enough staff members, participants might not get the help they need when they need it. A smaller number of participants for each staff member is better because it means more personal care.
- Personalised Care Plans
Find out if the SIL provider works with participants and their families to create a care plan just for them. This plan should cover the specific help they need and how they want to be supported. Good communication and honesty during this process are really important.
- What Other People Say
Look for reviews or testimonials from people who have used the provider before. If most of the feedback is positive, it’s a good sign that the SIL provider takes good care of the participants and their families.
- Fun and Social Activities
The best SIL providers don’t just focus on care—they also help participants feel part of a community. This can include things like social events, group activities, or encouraging them to join local events. Being connected to others is important for feeling happy and included.
- Living Arrangements
Visit the accommodation to see if it feels comfortable, safe, and welcoming. Participants should have a clean space where they feel at home. Ask if they get a say in decorating or setting up their personal space to make it feel like their own.
- Help with Independence
A good SIL provider helps participants grow their independence. This could mean learning skills like cooking, budgeting, or using public transport. Ask how they encourage participants to build confidence and try new things.
- Emergency Support
Check if the provider has plans in place for emergencies. For example, if someone gets sick or needs help quickly, how does the staff respond? Knowing there’s always a plan for unexpected situations can bring peace of mind.
Taking the time to check these factors can help you find a SIL provider that truly supports participants in feeling safe, happy, and confident in their daily lives.
Why Our SIL Accommodation Stands Out
At Reaching Abilities, we’re here to help you live more independently with SIL accommodation in WA that truly feels like home. Here’s how we support you every step of the way:
- A Caring Team: Our friendly and well-trained support workers always treat you with kindness and respect, making sure you feel safe and understood.
- Plans Just for You: We listen to what’s important to you and create care plans that fit your goals, preferences, and abilities.
- Real Progress: Our participants grow in confidence, independence, and happiness because we focus on what helps them succeed.
- Inclusive Communities: We don’t just stop at NDIS plans—we create welcoming spaces where everyone feels valued and connected.
We believe everyone deserves to feel supported and empowered. Our goal is to help you achieve your dreams and thrive within your community.
Take the First Step Toward Personalised Care
Personalised care in SIL accommodation can help NDIS participants become more independent, confident, and enjoy a better quality of life. Want to see how personalised support can make a difference? Get in touch with our team to learn more about our SIL services in WA. We’ll work with you to create a care plan that fits your goals and dreams. Ready to get started? Call us at 1300 933 811 or visit us in Perth or Sydney. Let’s work together to help you reach your full potential!
Ozer Tanlasi – Founder and Director of Reaching Abilities
Ozer Tanlasi is the Founder and Director of Reaching Abilities, an organisation dedicated to providing compassionate and empowering support to individuals with disabilities. With a background in allied health and a deep commitment to inclusive care, Ozer established Reaching Abilities to create a welcoming space where individuals can thrive, gain independence, and achieve their personal goals. Her approach is centred around understanding each individual’s unique needs and strengths, ensuring they receive tailored services that make a positive impact on their lives. Under Ozer’s leadership, Reaching Abilities has become known for its compassionate, client-focused approach, supporting individuals and families in building meaningful connections and reaching new potentials.
