Carers NSW is running a new program to help older carers understand the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and how to best use it.
The National Community Connector program commenced on 1 June 2020. It is for carers aged 65 plus who are looking after someone with a disability.
The program is also available to Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people aged over 50 years who are caring for a relative or friend with a disability under the age of 65 years.
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is funding the program. On the North Coast a Community Connector Project Officer, Karren Graham, is located in Coffs Harbour.
The Community Connector program provides information and support and aims to help carers:
- Positively engage with the NDIS.
- Understand the NDIS and break down barriers to access the NDIS.
- Gather evidence to assist with using the NDIS, including functional assessments.
- Get or complete an NDIS access request form.
- Appeal an NDIS access decision.
- Connect to mainstream supports with their care recipients if the NDIS rejects an access request.
- Connect carers to the broader system of supports for people with a disability.
Carers are referred to the program through the Carer Gateway. Call 1800 422 737 for more information about intake and assessment.
Ms Graham, who is also a support coordinator with Carers NSW, can be contacted directly by emailing: [email protected]