Guide to increase social and community participation

3. Develop Communication Skills:

 Communication skills play a vital role in building connections, fostering relationships, expressing needs and wants, and actively engaging with others. In this article, by developing and improving these skills, NDIS participants can:

• Express Their Needs and Wants:

Effective communication skills allow individuals to express their needs, wants, and preferences confidently and clearly. This enables others to better understand and accommodate their requirements, leading to greater participation opportunities.

• Build Meaningful Connections:

Strong communication skills facilitate the building of meaningful connections and relationships with peers, support workers, community members, and service providers. Good communication fosters mutual understanding, empathy, and trust, which are essential for positive social interactions.

• Access Information and Resources:

Effective communication skills enable individuals to access information, resources, and support. Clear and concise communication helps in seeking assistance, understanding community programs, and obtaining necessary resources to participate in various activities.

• Navigate Social and Community Settings:

Developing communication skills enhances an individual’s ability to navigate social and community settings effectively. This includes understanding social cues, maintaining interactions, and resolving conflicts, ultimately leading to increased comfort and confidence in participating in a broad range of community events.

4. Explore Local Community Programs:

Research and connect with local community programs tailored to individuals with disabilities. These programs often offer a variety of social and recreational activities such as sports, art classes, music groups, and volunteering opportunities. Engaging in local community programs offers numerous benefits for NDIS participants:

Expanded Social Network:

By participating in community programs, individuals can expand their social network and foster connections with people who share similar interests and experiences. Building a supportive community network is essential for enhancing social well-being and reducing isolation.

• Skill Development:

Community programs often offer opportunities for skill development and learning new hobbies or activities. Engaging in these programs can help NDIS participants acquire new skills, boost their self-confidence, and increase their independence.

• Increased Community Integration:

Participating in local community programs allows individuals to become active members of their community. This integration helps break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and promote inclusion.

5. Use Assistive Technology:

Assistive technology can be a valuable tool in increasing social and innovative community participation. Explore options such as communication apps, personalized devices, or mobility aids that can support your engagement with others and enhance your participation. The utilization of assistive technology offers numerous benefits for NDIS participants:

• Increasing Accessibility: Assistive technology reduces barriers and improves accessibility for individuals with disabilities in various social and community settings. It helps overcome physical, sensory, or cognitive challenges, enabling full participation and inclusion.
• Enhancing Communication: Assistive technology facilitates effective communication, allowing individuals to express their thoughts, needs, and desires more easily. It bridges communication gaps, promotes understanding, and fosters meaningful connections with others.
• Enabling Independence: By utilizing assistive technology, NDIS participants can accomplish tasks independently and reduce the reliance on others. This autonomy boosts confidence, self-esteem, and empowers individuals to actively engage in social and community activities.
• Accessing Information and Resources: Assistive technology provides access to information, resources, and opportunities that may otherwise be inaccessible. It allows NDIS participants to stay informed, learn new skills, and actively participate in community programs and events.

6. Participate in NDIS-funded Supports:

The NDIS provides funding for support services aimed at increasing social and community participation. Work with your NDIS support coordinator to identify and access appropriate supports such as individualized social skills training, community access programs, and peer support groups. Participating in NDIS-funded supports offers numerous benefits for individuals with disabilities:

• Building Skills and Confidence: NDIS-funded supports provide opportunities for individuals to develop essential skills, such as communication, socialization, and independent living skills. These supports enhance self-confidence, improve self-esteem, and empower individuals to actively engage in social and community settings.
  • Accessing Resources and Opportunities: NDIS funding enables individuals to access resources, services, and programs that may otherwise be out of reach. This access opens doors to a wide range of educational, vocational, recreational, and cultural opportunities, allowing participants to expand their networks and explore new interests.
  • Enhancing Social Connections: Engaging in NDIS-funded supports facilitates social connections, enabling individuals to interact with peers, mentors, and professionals within their communities. These connections foster a sense of belonging, reduce social isolation, and promote the development of meaningful relationships.
  • Providing Support and Guidance: NDIS-funded supports offer professional guidance, mentorship, and assistance in navigating various social and community settings. This support ensures that individuals have the resources and tools necessary to overcome challenges and fully participate in activities of interest.

Resources and Support

The NDIS provides several resources and support options to assist individuals with disabilities in increasing their social and community participation. Some of these include:

• Participant Empowerment Program: This program aims to build confidence and self-advocacy skills, enabling individuals to actively participate in decision-making processes.
• Community Connectors Initiative: This initiative connects NDIS participants to local community networks, organizations, and services, promoting greater social interaction and community engagement.
• The NDIS website:

The official NDIS website (www.ndis.gov.au) offers comprehensive information and resources on social and community participation, including workshops, webinars, and guides. In addition to the NDIS, numerous community organizations and disability specific support groups are available to aid and engagement opportunities. Research local organizations in your area or consult with your NDIS support coordinator for tailored recommendations.