The right support worker can change the shape of your week. Here is what to look for, and what to ask, before you commit.
Start with what matters to you
Before you ring anyone, write down three things a good week looks like for you: getting to the gym, cooking your own dinner, seeing friends on Saturday. A provider who listens to those goals is worth far more than one with a long brochure.
Questions to ask any provider
- Will I have the same worker each visit, and what happens when they are away?
- What screening and training do your workers hold?
- Can I meet the worker before support starts?
- How do you handle cancellations, and what notice do you need?
- Are you registered with the NDIS, and how does that affect my funding type?
- How do you support people from my cultural or language background?
- What do you do if something goes wrong on a shift?
- Can I change or end the arrangement easily?
- Who do I call if I have a concern?
- What are your rates, and are they within NDIS price limits?
Trust your first conversation
Notice whether they ask about you, or just talk about themselves. Notice whether they are honest about what they cannot do yet. A new, small provider who is upfront can be a better fit than a large one that treats you as a number.
Give it a trial
Agree on a short trial period, then check in: Is the worker on time? Do you feel respected? Are you closer to the goals you wrote down? If yes, keep going. If not, you are allowed to change.