7 Factors to Choosing the Perfect NDIS Short Term Accommodation

19 July 2023

Reading Time: 4 minutes

A simple Google search for NDIS short-term accommodation providers in Melbourne gives around 19,00,000 results. The NDIS website is a valuable resource that provides a comprehensive list of all active and registered NDIS providers. However, with a staggering number of 918 active partners currently available, selecting the most suitable provider can become a daunting and overwhelming task. This list doesn’t even include all of the unregistered providers which makes choosing a provider an even more overwhelming process.

In this blog, we will simplify this process by explaining the key areas surrounding STA and discussing the factors you need to consider before choosing a STA provider.

What is Short Term Accommodation (STA)?

Short-term accommodation (also known as respite care) offers a temporary place to stay for a few days or weeks. STA can be a suitable alternative during a crisis or for letting you and your caregiver have a break. During your stay you may get 24/7 assistance from certified support staff, proper nutritional meals, assisted transportation, engaging social activities, etc., depending on your needs.

How Can STA Help You?

NDIS short term accommodation can come in handy during any of the following situations:

Your caregiver or family is unwell and need a break
You’ve been involved in an accident and require special care
You are facing a crisis
You want to learn new skills or socialise

Making Sense of NDIS Short Term Accommodation Price Guide

Prior to searching for a short-term accommodation provider, it is important to review the NDIS price guide. The price guide will provide you with important information about the prices the NDIS may fund for different types of STA. Visit the blog NDIS STA price guide to learn more.

Choosing the Perfect NDIS Short-Term Accommodation Provider in Melbourne

Finding the perfect provider from the long list of registered and non-registered providers for your needs can be challenging. To make this process easier, here are some factors to consider:

NDIS registration
Location
Service offerings
Quality of care
Staffing and experience
Safety and quality
Collaboration

1. NDIS registration

The NDIS allows you to choose between registered and non-registered providers. Providers must pass through a formal registration process with NDIS to become registered. The registered providers must meet specific safety and quality parameters, comply with insurance, and adhere to the policies and guidelines of NDIS.

While non-registered providers can also follow these norms, they aren’t subject to the same level of scrutiny by the NDIS as the registered ones. Therefore, you are at your own risk while choosing a non-registered provider.

2. Location

You must consider the STA’s location before choosing your provider. To make the right choice, evaluate factors such as:

Proximity to desired amenities
Accessibility to community resources
Proximity to medical facilities
Proximity to support networks and family

Here at Hikma House, you can find different types of accommodation with detailed information about them to best help you find the accommodation that is right for you.

3. Service offerings

Before choosing a provider, check whether they offer the support and services you need. You must consider factors like disability support type, therapy services, specialised care requirements, and the availability of any specific requirements.

4. Quality of care

Always choose a NDIS short-term accommodation provider in Melbourne with a reputation for quality care. To make a better-informed decision, it may be helpful to consider the reviews received by a provider. Hikma House, for instance, is rated 5 stars on Google and is viewed as a trusted and well-respected NDIS service provider in Melbourne.

You may also consult peers, online forums, support groups, etc., for more detailed insight. Lastly, it would be very beneficial to interact with the service provider and schedule a tour before making any decisions

5. Staffing and experience

The NDIS short-term accommodation provider you select should have experienced support staff capable of offering the necessary support. You must therefore ensure that the support staff have the necessary and relevant qualifications, experience in providing support, etc.

6. Safety and quality

The STA provider should also offer comfortable, safe, well-maintained, and high-quality accommodation. There should be appropriate equipment and staff availability to handle emergencies.

7. Collaboration

Analyse the provider’s willingness to communicate and collaborate with you. The provider should be ready to hear your suggestions and act with you to offer consistent care while addressing your needs and concerns.

Seeking Help from a Trained Support Coordinator

If you find it challenging to find the STA provider, you can seek help from a trained support coordinator. Support coordinators help manage and coordinate support outlined in your plan by acting as the bridge between you, caregivers, and service providers. Here is a short 9-step guide for choosing the perfect support coordinator.

Summary

Choosing the perfect NDIS short-term accommodation provider in Melbourne doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By considering factors like NDIS registration, location, services offered, quality of care, staff experience, safety, and collaboration, you can make an informed decision.

Prioritize providers with NDIS registration for safety and quality assurance. Evaluate locations based on amenities and support networks. Ensure the provider offers the services you need and has a reputation for excellent care.

If you have any questions or would like support throughout this process, feel free to contact us today anytime.