Supported Independent Living (SIL) and other supported accommodation bring particular challenges for behaviour support. Support comes from a rostered team, people share their home, and restrictive practices are more likely to be in place.
Why shared living is different
- Many different workers support the person across a week
- Housemates can be affected by, or contribute to, behaviours of concern
- Environmental restraints, such as locked kitchens or cupboards, often affect everyone in the home
- The provider has obligations under the NDIS rules when restrictive practices are used
What the provider needs to do
When a provider uses a regulated restrictive practice, it must be in a behaviour support plan, authorised under the state process where required, and reported to the NDIS Commission each month. Any use outside the plan is a reportable incident.
Making the plan work across a team
- Training every shift. We train house leaders and as many workers as possible, and provide short guides for new or casual staff.
- Clear daily routines. Predictable routines reduce triggers for many people.
- Good records. Accurate behaviour and incident records show what is working.
- Regular check ins. We follow up with the team leader so problems are picked up early.
Housemates and restrictive practices
When a restriction is in place for one person, it can affect others in the home. Plans should keep this to a minimum, and the impact on housemates should be considered in the plan and in authorisation.
Read more about restrictive practices and how plans reduce them.
This article is general information only and is not advice about a particular person's circumstances. NDIS funding arrangements change from time to time, so check the participant's plan and current NDIA guidance.
