The life changing effects of the NDIS

Published On: 7 October 2019Categories: NDIS, News

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has transformed the lives of Narangba siblings Arabella and Braedon, and their parents.

Before the NDIS, the family self-funded most of Arabella and Braedon’s therapies, but this changed at the beginning of the year when the siblings received their NDIS funding. Since then, the pair have been busy working towards achieving their goals and living life to its fullest.

“Arabella was born with a rare life limiting condition, that only a handful of Australians have been diagnosed with, and requires 24/7 complex care and support. Braedon, is 14 and is a kind, happy boy, who was diagnosed with autism and intellectual impairment.

“The old system wasn’t for everyone. Some people need more support than others and the NDIS doesn’t discriminate, which is the best thing ever.”

Megan self-manages Arabella and Braedon’s plans, which was a natural step for the small business owner, and having the freedom to choose support workers that were right for her children has proven to be effective.

“I trust my support workers and the larger organisations are great. We handpicked them to match their goals and we’ve worked out a great schedule. It’s a relief as parents to have the Scheme in place because I know my children will be looked after.

“Arabella had never slept away from home, now she can and she loves it. She’s with her friends at Hummingbird House, and they support her so well. The smile on her face makes my day, and having this type of support to help her reach her goals is fantastic.

“Braedon is getting to experience life, and just thinking about it makes me tear up. He’s developing his own personality, and with guidance from an Occupational Therapist funded through the NDIS, we are putting in place strategies to help him develop his independent life skills and access the community.

“His communication is also coming along well, and he’s learning to calm himself in busy environments. We opted for a less traditional approach to speech therapy because, for Braedon, his barrier is behaviour. If we can support him in that way, then he'll be calmer and happier to sit longer in a classroom to learn.”

Arabella and Braedon are supported on their NDIS journey by Narelle, a Local Area Coordinator at Carers Queensland NDIS Partner in the Community Program for the Moreton Bay region.

Carers Queensland can support you to find out more about the NDIS, to apply for the funding and to help you get started with the NDIS.

If you have a disability but are not eligible for the NDIS, Carers Queensland staff can also help you identify and link to options for support in your community.

To find out more about how the NDIS and Local Area Coordination program can work for you, visit Carers Queensland NDIS Local Area Coordination Partner in the Community Program for the Moreton Bay region, Level 5/10 The Corso, North Lakes 4509 or call (07) 3384 1600.

You can also contact Carers Queensland on 1300 999 636, or cq.enquiries@ndis.gov.au