3 Tips for Accessing Support During COVID-19
If you’re living with a disability, you may be feeling particularly vulnerable right now.
You had more control over your life before the pandemic. You were able to participate actively in the community and get the necessary support.
Maintaining a sense of safety and independence is more difficult at the moment. Coronavirus has meant essential support workers have had to stay home.
If you’re a parent of someone with a disability, the loss of respite may be taking a toll on your mental health. If you’re immunocompromised, perhaps daily visits from support workers are making you anxious. All of these issues can put a strain on you and your support system.
Where to get help?
The NDIS has made changes to ensure the safety and well-being of some of the most vulnerable in our community, but accessing support can still be challenging. However, it’s not impossible. There’s still support available via the official channels and through local initiatives as well.
Here are three tips to accessing support during COVID-19:
1. Access Support Coordination
It’s a good idea to contact your support coordinator so they can implement a crisis plan. This will help you and your support workers navigate the effects Coronavirus has had on your day-to-day life.
Don’t have support coordination in your plan? The NDIS has made Core Supports more flexible, and the package now includes line items for Support Coordination. This means you can find new support workers or resolve issues with current providers.
For more NDIS information regarding COVID-19, check out the latest updates.
2. Reach out to the local community
Whether you’re feeling emotionally or physically vulnerable, you don’t have to battle through it alone. Staying connected is crucial right now.
Consider asking a friend or neighbour to help you set up a Zoom meeting so you can stay in contact with your loved ones. Most counselors and psychologists are now offering Telehealth sessions to their clients through Medicare. Talking can ease the burden and provide relief.
If you’re feeling particularly despairing, you can call Lifeline 13 11 14 at all hour of the day. They also provide online chat support.
Local community groups and businesses are getting together to provide assistance with deliveries or shopping.
Emergency Relief Package:
If you’re unable to go out and get food or personal care items, Service NSW can help. You can call them on 13 77 88.
Community Care Northern Beaches
Community Care Northern Beaches support people, families and carers to access the services they require when they require them. They’re offering to help people in isolation. You can contact them on 1300 002 262.
Link Community Care:
Link Community Care is offering support throughout the Northern Beaches. They’re providing food care, hampers and lunchboxes.
Community Facebook Groups:
Most neighbourhoods have Facebook groups where members are willing to help the community. If you live in the Northern Beaches #MyStreetSupport/Avalon Beach is supporting those living in Avalon Beach who are in self-isolation or are at high risk and unable to leave their home. Join the group or search for a group in your neighbourhood.
3. Connect with resources
When you’re feeling particularly overwhelmed, you might not feel up to finding resources available to you. Accessing these services can bring a lot of relief.
Here are some of the resources available.
Disability Information Helpline:
The Disability Information Helpline provides information and referrals for people with disability who need help during Coronavirus. If you have any questions about support, you can contact the helpline.
The Growing Space:
The Growing Space has a wealth of up-to-date and practical resources for people with disabilities and their families.
Carer Gateway:
Carer Gateway will help you find local support services.
Your safety and well-being is a priority. If you have any questions about the NDIS or support services in the Northern Beaches, don’t hesitate to get in touch.