Feeling connected to your community can make everyday life more meaningful. But for some people with disability, getting to a social event, joining a group or trying a new hobby may require additional support.
So, what is community participation under NDIS? It refers to NDIS supports that can help participants take part in social, community and recreational activities that align with their goals and interests.
What Does Community Participation Mean Under the NDIS?
Community participation is about helping you become involved in activities and places that matter to you. This could include joining a local hobby group, attending a community event, participating in sport, volunteering or spending time with others.
The type of assistance you receive depends on your individual needs, goals and NDIS plan. A support worker may help you attend activities, build confidence and develop skills for participating in your local community.
What Are Community Participation Activities for NDIS Participants?
There is no single activity that works for everyone. Community participation activities for NDIS participants can be based around personal interests, social goals and abilities.
For example, you might enjoy:
- Joining a sports or recreation group
- Attending arts or craft activities
- Visiting community centres or local events
- Volunteering
- Joining hobby groups
- Going to markets or social gatherings
- Taking part in outdoor activities
- Developing social or communication skills
The goal is not simply to fill your schedule. The right activity should allow you to connect with people, explore interests or work towards your personal goals.
How Can Community Participation Support NDIS Participants?
Community participation support for NDIS participants may involve practical assistance from a support worker. Depending on your needs, this could include helping you prepare for an activity, travelling to a location, attending an event with you or providing support while you participate.
For example, a support worker might accompany you to a community group if you feel unsure about attending alone. Over time, support can also focus on developing skills and confidence to participate more comfortably.
Can Community Participation Help With Social Connections?
Yes. Community participation can create opportunities to meet people, develop relationships and become more involved in your local community.
NDIS research has found that participants associated community participation with greater connection, broader social networks and reduced isolation.
However, participation should be personalised. You should have a say in what activities you try and who supports you.
How Do You Access Community Participation Support?
Begin by reviewing the goals and supports identified in your NDIS plan. Your support coordinator, NDIS partner or provider can also help you to understand options and put you in touch with activities that are suitable for you.
The NDIS currently lists Assistance with Social and Community Participation among its support options, while its Provider Finder includes providers offering participation in community, social and civic activities.
Keep in mind that funding from the NDIS won’t cover all activities or costs. Supports need to be consistent with the NDIS requirements and in line with your plan.
How Can Support Community Participation?
If you want to engage more with your community, the proper support could make it easier to get off the fence. Care 2 You Healthcare can support participants with community participation based on their individual needs, interests and goals.
Personalised support can make it easier and more comfortable to participate in a hobby, social activity or help to feel more connected to your local area.
What Could Your Community Participation Goal Look Like?
Your goal might be as simple as meeting new people, joining a group or getting out of the house more often. You may want to develop communication skills, explore a new hobby or participate in an activity you already enjoy.
The important thing is that community participation should reflect your interests, your goals and the type of support you need. With the right approach, getting involved can become a regular and enjoyable part of everyday life.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is community participation under NDIS?
Community participation under the NDIS involves supports that can help participants take part in social, community and recreational activities that relate to their goals and interests. - Who can access community participation support under the NDIS?
NDIS participants may be able to access relevant support when it meets NDIS requirements, relates to their disability and supports the goals and needs identified in their plan. - What are community participation activities for NDIS participants?
Activities can include sports, hobbies, volunteering, arts, community events, recreational activities, social groups and other opportunities that help participants connect with their community. - Can a support worker accompany me to a community activity?
Depending on your plan and support needs, a support worker may assist you to attend social events, community groups or recreational activities. The support should align with your goals and NDIS funding. - Can community participation help reduce social isolation?
Community participation can create opportunities to meet people and develop social connections. NDIS research has identified links between community participation, broader social networks and reduced isolation. - Can I choose which community activities I participate in?
Your interests and goals should guide your choices. Depending on your circumstances and available supports, you may explore activities such as sports, hobbies, volunteering or local community groups. - Does NDIS pay for every community activity?
No. NDIS funding can only be used for supports that meet the relevant NDIS requirements. Some activity costs, such as certain recreational expenses, may not be covered. - Can community participation help develop social skills?
It can. Some supports may help participants practise communication, social interaction and other skills while taking part in activities that interest them. - How do I find community participation support?
You can discuss your needs with your support coordinator, NDIS partner or potential providers. The NDIS Provider Finder also allows participants to search for providers offering relevant participation supports. - Why is personalised community participation support important?
Everyone has different interests, abilities and support needs. Personalised support allows activities and assistance to be chosen around the participant’s goals rather than using the same approach for everyone.
