Charting Your Course: Goal Setting and Person-Centred Planning in the NDIS
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) isn’t just about funding supports and services; it’s about empowering individuals to live fulfilling lives based on their own aspirations and dreams. At the heart of this philosophy lies the powerful partnership between goal setting and person-centred planning.
Embracing Your Vision: Defining Your Goals
Imagine the life you wish to live. Do you aspire to greater independence, pursuing educational goals, engaging in social activities or building stronger relationships? Identifying your personal goals becomes the first step in this transformative journey. These goals should be:
- Specific: Define them clearly, avoiding ambiguous statements. Instead of “be more independent,” aim for “cook two meals a week independently by month’s end.”
- Measurable: Establish benchmarks to track progress. “Take public transport to work twice a week” makes progress quantifiable.
- Achievable: Set realistic goals considering your current abilities and available resources.
- Relevant: Ensure goals align with your overall aspirations and values.
- Time-bound: Set deadlines to maintain motivation and focus. “Join a social club within three months” creates a sense of urgency.
Remember, these are your goals, not somebody else’s. Embrace your aspirations, big or small and don’t hesitate to dream big!
Building Your Roadmap: Person-Centred Planning
Once your goals are defined, it’s time to craft a plan to achieve them. This is where person-centred planning comes in. This collaborative approach emphasises:
- Your Voice: You are the driver of your plan. Your choices, preferences and needs guide the entire process.
- Partnership: Support coordinators, family and other stakeholders work alongside you, offering guidance and support without overshadowing your voice.
- Strengths and Assets: The focus shifts from limitations to identifying your strengths, skills and resources to build upon.
- Community Connections: The plan explores how existing community resources and services can contribute to your goals.
- Flexible and Adaptable: Your plan is a living document, reviewed and adjusted regularly to reflect your changing needs and circumstances.
Support Coordinators: Navigating Your Journey
Navigating the NDIS and formulating a person-centred plan can be daunting. This is where support coordinators become your invaluable allies. They can:
- Facilitate goal-setting workshops: They help you brainstorm, explore options and refine your goals to ensure clarity and achievability.
- Connect you with resources: They can identify providers, programs and community services that align with your plan.
- Help develop your plan: They work collaboratively to document your goals, identify supports and outline action steps.
- Coordinate service delivery: They ensure smooth communication and collaboration between various providers involved in your plan.
- Monitor progress and make adjustments: They work with you to track progress, evaluate effectiveness and adapt the plan as needed.
Embracing Transformation: Putting It All Together
Setting ambitious yet achievable goals and crafting a person-centred plan empowers you to take control of your journey. Remember, there will be challenges and setbacks along the way. But with the support of a skilled support coordinator, a community network and unwavering determination, you can achieve your aspirations and live a fulfilling life aligned with your vision.
Additional Tips:
- Use mind maps or vision boards to visualise your goals and stay motivated.
- Celebrate milestones: Acknowledge your achievements, big and small, to maintain momentum.
- Seek support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your support coordinator, family, friends or other NDIS participants for encouragement and guidance.
- Embrace continuous learning: Be open to exploring new skills and opportunities that can further enhance your independence and well-being.
The NDIS offers a unique opportunity to unlock your potential and live a life of your choosing. By embracing goal setting and person-centred planning, you can chart your course towards a fulfilling future filled with possibilities. Remember, the journey begins with your aspirations and continues with your unwavering commitment to achieving them. Take the first step today and watch your dreams transform into reality.
Talk to Optimum Care Group, Melbourne’s best support coordinator.