Difference between NDIS Planner and Support Coordinator

Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be complex, especially when it comes to understanding the roles of key service providers such as NDIS planners and support coordinators. At Carer Connection Disability Services, a trusted NDIS registered provider in Melbourne, we recognize the importance of clarifying these roles to ensure that participants receive the support they need. In this guide, we'll explore the key differences between NDIS planners and support coordinators to help you make informed decisions about your disability support needs.

NDIS Planner

1. Role: An NDIS planner is responsible for assisting participants in developing their NDIS plan. They work closely with participants to assess their needs, goals, and support requirements, and then develop a plan that outlines the funded supports and services they are eligible to receive under the NDIS.
2. Functions:

• Conducting assessments to determine eligibility for the NDIS.
• Working with participants to identify their goals and aspirations.
• Helping participants understand their funding options and choose appropriate supports and services.
• Developing a comprehensive NDIS plan that outlines the participant's funded supports and services.

3. Focus: The primary focus of an NDIS planner is on the initial planning and development of the participant's NDIS plan, ensuring that it aligns with their individual needs and goals.

Support Coordinator

1. Role: A support coordinator assists participants in implementing and managing their NDIS plan. They work closely with participants to connect them with service providers, coordinate supports, and build their capacity to effectively utilize their NDIS funding.
2. Functions:

• Assisting participants in understanding and navigating their NDIS plan.
• Connecting participants with NDIS providers, community resources, and other support services.
• Coordinating supports and services to ensure that they are delivered in a timely and effective manner.
• Building the participant's skills and confidence to self-manage their supports over time.

1. Focus: The primary focus of a support coordinator is on ongoing support and coordination to help participants implement their NDIS plan and achieve their goals.

Understanding the Difference

1. Planning vs. Coordination: While NDIS planners focus on the initial planning and development of the participant's NDIS plan, support coordinators are responsible for ongoing coordination and implementation of the plan.
2. Goal Setting vs. Implementation: NDIS planners work with participants to set goals and identify suitable supports, whereas support coordinators assist participants in accessing and utilizing those supports to achieve their goals.
3. Single vs. Ongoing Engagement: Participants typically engage with an NDIS planner at the beginning of their NDIS journey to develop their initial plan, while support coordinators provide ongoing support and assistance throughout the duration of the plan.

Conclusion

In summary, NDIS planners and support coordinators play distinct but complementary roles in the NDIS process. While NDIS planners focus on the initial planning and development of the participant's NDIS plan, support coordinators provide ongoing support and coordination to help participants implement their plan and achieve their goals. At Carer Connection Disability Services, we offer both NDIS planning and NDIS support coordination in Melbourne to ensure that participants receive comprehensive support tailored to their individual needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you on your NDIS journey.