NDIS

[Alone]

Hi,  I was wondering if anyone had had experience using the workbook on the reimagine website to help them get onto the NDIS?  If so, did you find it helpful?

I just looked at it, and its 40 pages.  I was a bit overwhelmed with all the info so knowing if it has helped others would be good.

Also, does anyone know if you are on your own and don't have someone to help you navigate the NDIS and to speak up for you, is there anyone who will help?

[Former-Member]

Hi @Alone

Thank you for your post. There are many people who have expressed concern and are feeling overwhelmed by all the information around the NDIS, here on the Forums. Have you seen/read the two Topic Tuesday event threads here, around the NDIS planning process, and questions Forum members asked around the NDIS. Hopefully, reading through these threads may answer some of your questions.

In terms of having someone to speak up for you, have you searched for mental health advocacy services in your state? Perhaps, you might be able to find someone to advocate for you around the NDIS through a mental health advocacy service?

Kindest Regards,

Amour_Et_Psyché

[Alone]

Hi Amour,

Thank you for that.  It's very overwhelming!

cheers

Alone

[Queenie]

Hello there @Alone, the NDIS comes into effect in my area mid next year, but I am already gathering my evidence required now as once you apply, you have only got 14 days to gather your evidence of need from doctors/specialists (otherwise you'll be rejected and have to reapply). I am lucky I have a support worker who is willing to help walk me through the process, otherwise I'd be lost. It seems very overwhelming and stressful process really.

[Former-Member]

No problems @Alone - I hope it is helpful!

Yes - it definitely is overwhelming!

[Former-Member]

Hi @Alone. The NDIS website, process … everything NDIS is totally overwhelming—for me, anyway. Every time I looked at the NDIS website I would end up having a panic attack. I am lucky enough that I now have someone helping me with the process. Even so, I am finding it really soul-destroying—and I haven’t even submitted my application yet. I just keep holding on to the fact that it will be worth it in the end, if my application is approved.

I would suggest contacting the Local Area Coordinators in your area. They should be able to help you with the process and with information—or point you in the right direction of where to seek help. You can find some info about Local Area Coordination here: NDIS - Local Area Coordination.

I hadn’t seen the reimagine website before. It’s not loading properly for me at the moment, but from what I can see it looks like it would be helpful. My support worker showed me the reimagine workbook today, and it looked very similar to the one I completed with her. That is definitely worth filling out because it answers all the questions the NDIA will ask. It is very overwhelming and my suggestion is to take it really slowly. Just do it a tiny bit at a time, as much as you can manage.

Hi @Queenie. I just thought I’d let you know that the 14 day 'rule' (for want of a better word) is very flexible. I requested my forms back at the end of July. I called the NDIA at the beginning of August and said I would need more time to get reports prepared and gather evidence. They were fine about it. I haven’t submitted my application yet because I am still waiting on final reports. I called them again about a week ago, just to touch base—and make sure they weren’t going to close my file—and it was still all good. But it’s definitely a good idea to gather evidence early if you can. 

I wish you both the best of luck. Look after yourselves—it is a tough process. 

[Alone]

Thanks everyone.

Queenie, it comes to my area mid next year too.   I have a community care worker but he hasnt taken any interest in helping me with it.  I only see him for a set time each week, and we just dont have time to do any more than shopping and appointments.

I only have a GP and not any mental health doctors or workers, so I am hoping that will be enough for evidence.  I've been on dsp for a long time, but I dont think they look at that. 

[BambiFawn]

Hey I don't know anything much about this. I have schizophrenia.  Am I elegible please for NDIS?

[Queenie]

I am glad @Former-Member that the 14 day 'rule' is flexible as sometimes it can't take a month to get into my psychiatrist and I usually only see him every 3 months. 

@BambiFawn I can't say just based on your diagnosis whether or not you should apply for funding or not, but it might be worth looking into if it turns out you're eligible. 

[BambiFawn]

Hey dear @Queenie, yes I've been told I am eligible for NDIS, just don't know much about it or the process involved in applying.