Be diligent with record keeping
It is helpful for your review if you keep a record of your past activities and services prior to the conversation.This includes details about the supports you have received, the activities you have tried and any notes or records you have that outline how you have met your goals. How have the supports or services helped you to manage your everyday life? Which services are helping you the most? Providing accurate records can ensure that the review goes smoothly and more efficiently. Make sure that you have details of your previous goals and whether or not you feel they have been met over the last twelve months. Also include information on the community and mainstream supports you’ve received and how they’ve been helping you so far.
Think about the future
As we mentioned above, keeping good records will allow you to check easily on whether or not the support you are receiving is sufficient and meeting your needs. But it is also important to be thinking about what can be improved in your life. What resources are still required to help you live the best life possible? If your goals and situation has changed since your last review, then write down how things have changed and what your new short term and long term goals are. Do you know what support you need to achieve these goals? You don’t have to only think of what you’ve done in the past. Think outside the box and list down things you want to try doing. Things that will improve your life and help you develop new skills. There are also a number of planning documents available online from different organisations to help you think about your review and your future.
A support person can help
It is understandable to feel overwhelmed before and during your NDIS review. Keep in mind that if you feel it’s hard to communicate your new goals and your views about the services you’ve been receiving, you can bring someone you trust to the review. It may be a carer, a family member or a friend. Someone who knows your situation well and is willing to help you communicate. Rehearse what you want to say before the review. This will ensure you get through all the points across that you want to discuss. Having a list, writing down key points and rehearsing your conversation can also help make the process smoother and feel more manageable and less stressful. And remember, if you are not sure about anything, you can always ask during the review.