Understanding the Impact of Increased Social and Community Participation in NDIS

December 18, 2024

One of the key aspects of the NDIS is “Increased Social and Community Participation,” which plays a significant role in improving quality of life by empowering individuals with a disability to build relationships, engage in social activities, and achieve personal goals. 

In this blog, we’ll take an in-depth look at what increased social and community participation means within the NDIS framework, its impact on participants, and how it can make a real difference in everyday life.

What is Increased Social and Community Participation?

Increased Social and Community Participation is a support category under the NDIS that provides funding for people with a disability to take part in activities that help them feel more connected, independent, and engaged with their community. 

It involves supporting participants in accessing social, recreational, and community activities that enrich their lives, whether it be joining a local sports club, attending workshops, volunteering, or even learning a new skill.

This support aims to open up opportunities that promote independence and build confidence and relationships. Through this type of participation, individuals can create meaningful connections that go beyond simply accessing services—it’s about belonging, contributing, and feeling valued in their community.

Understanding NDIS Categories: Where Does Social Participation Fit In?

The NDIS is divided into three core support categories: Core Support, Capacity-Building Support, and Capital Support. 

Increased Social and Community Participation falls under Capacity-Building Support. Unlike Core Support, which covers daily activities and immediate needs, Capacity-Building Support is designed to help participants develop skills that promote long-term independence.

This specific type of support can be used to fund classes, workshops, mentoring, and other opportunities that encourage participants to expand their abilities and engage in activities they are passionate about. This isn’t about covering everyday expenses—it’s about investing in a future filled with new experiences and social connections.

RELATED: What Can I Claim Under Capacity Building?

Examples of Activities Funded by Increased Social and Community Participation

You may wonder what activities can be funded through this NDIS support. The activities included under this category can vary widely, depending on the participant’s interests and goals. 

Here are some examples:

• Sports and Recreational Activities: Whether it’s joining a basketball team, participating in swimming lessons, or trying out yoga, sports activities are a great way to stay active and connect with others.

• Art and Creative Classes: Engaging in art, drama, or music lessons can be an excellent outlet for self-expression, allowing participants to develop their creativity while meeting like-minded people.

• Skill Development: Workshops that teach life skills, such as cooking classes, budgeting, or computer literacy, can help participants become more independent and gain the confidence to pursue other community activities.

• Volunteering: Getting involved in a volunteering role is a fantastic way to meet new people, give back to the community, and gain valuable skills that could lead to employment opportunities.

• Community Events and Outings: Attending community events, group outings, or social gatherings is an excellent way for participants to stay engaged with their local community and build a sense of belonging.

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How Increased Social and Community Participation Impacts Participants

The impact of increased social and community participation on NDIS participants cannot be overstated. It’s about much more than just having fun or passing the time—the benefits can profoundly influence many areas of life. Below, we explore some of the key impacts:

1. Improved Mental Health and Wellbeing

Social interaction is crucial for maintaining good mental health. Participants who are actively engaged in community activities often report feeling less isolated. The simple act of sharing experiences with others can lift mood, reduce stress, and combat feelings of loneliness.

Additionally, engaging in physical activities, such as sports, has a well-documented effect on boosting mental health and helps in reducing anxiety and depression.

2. Building Independence

Increased Social and Community Participation is an essential stepping stone towards greater independence. By learning new skills and exploring personal interests, participants gain the confidence they need to take charge of their lives. Skill development activities, such as cooking classes or learning how to use public transport, are empowering because they allow individuals to perform tasks on their own and rely less on support from others.

This increased level of independence often has a ripple effect. For instance, someone who learns to travel independently can open doors to other activities, such as joining clubs, volunteering, or even exploring employment opportunities.

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3. Developing Social Skills and Friendships

Many participants in the NDIS are eager to build relationships but may find it challenging to connect with others. By providing structured opportunities for social and community participation, the NDIS helps participants develop communication and interpersonal skills in a safe and supportive environment.

Through shared activities, participants can meet others who have similar interests, which helps to foster genuine friendships. These relationships can play an essential role in improving the quality of life and providing a strong support network beyond the immediate family or carers.

4. Pathways to Employment

For those interested in gaining employment, Increased Social and Community Participation can provide an excellent foundation. By volunteering or participating in community activities, participants gain hands-on experience, learn how to interact in different settings and develop skills that are valued in the workplace. Building a network of contacts and gaining confidence through social participation can make a real difference when it comes to finding a job.

For participants working towards greater independence, a well-structured behaviour support plan can be crucial. Learn about the 5 Main Elements Of A Behaviour Support Plan to understand how these elements can assist in personal growth.

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How to Access Increased Social and Community Participation in Your NDIS Plan

So, how can you include Increased Social and Community Participation in your NDIS plan? The first step is to work with your NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to identify your goals. Once you have outlined what you’d like to achieve—whether it’s making new friends, becoming more independent, or learning a new skill—your planner can help include the appropriate support in your plan.

It’s important to note that this category falls under Capacity Building Supports, which means the funding is generally allocated to help participants develop new skills and reach specific goals. When planning for these supports, think about what activities are meaningful to you and how they align with your longer-term aspirations.

If you’re unsure about the various support services available through NDIS, take a look at our blog on Understanding NDIS Support Services.

Tips for Making the Most of Increased Social and Community Participation

Here are some practical tips to make the most of your Increased Social and Community Participation funding:

• Set Clear Goals: Think about what you want to achieve with this funding. Is it learning a new skill, improving your social connections, or gaining confidence in public spaces? Having clear goals helps you make informed decisions about the activities you participate in.

• Explore Local Opportunities: There are often community centres, clubs, or organisations in your area that offer activities that may align with your goals. Whether it’s a gardening club or a community choir, be proactive in seeking out opportunities to get involved.

• Work with Providers You Trust: Choosing the right support provider can make all the difference. Providers like Interaction Services specialise in helping people with a disability engage in community activities, offering support that is tailored to individual needs. A reliable provider will listen to your goals and help you participate in activities that are meaningful to you.

• Don’t Be Afraid to Try Something New: Sometimes, stepping outside your comfort zone can be the key to finding a new passion. Consider trying activities that are unfamiliar—you may discover new skills or interests you never knew you had.

Make sure to connect with our Community Access and Self Care team to discover how we can assist you in reaching your goals.

How Interaction Services Can Help

At Interaction Services, we offer a range of services to help individuals connect with their community, whether it’s through group outings, skill-building workshops, or one-on-one support. Our team is committed to helping you explore opportunities that align with your goals, build your confidence, and foster a sense of belonging in your community.

Contact us to learn more about how we can assist you in making your NDIS plan work for you.