Last year we began working with Samar. Samar shares her experience of moving into SDA and explains why she wanted to share her story.
Tell us about yourself
I’m an independent woman, I have cerebral palsy. I live in an SDA apartment, which has been a real life changer for me. I am a disability support worker trainer and I share my lived experience with other projects as they come along. I like to support people with disabilities and hopefully my experience helps others.
Can you tell us about your SDA journey?
I waited 2 years to get the right SDA funding and during this time I was living in medium term accommodation. It was very stressful. Initially the NDIS came back with a determination of being in shared accommodation and we had to appeal that to get High Physical support so I could live on my own.
Have there been barriers along the way?
Yes, when you walk into an annual plan review meeting and they say you are no longer eligible for SDA it is a significant barrier. So, I’ve had to fight to keep my SDA this year as well.
Do you have any advice for others waiting on NDIS decisions?
Keep fighting – it’s not an easy battle but the harder you fight the better the outcome. Also, make sure you have the right people around to support you.
How has living in SDA changed things for you?
Previously I didn’t leave my accommodation, I didn’t feel safe. Now I’m out and about enjoying life and I’m working full time. I’m very excited as shortly I will be moving to a new SDA apartment in an area of my choice. Living in this new area I’ll be able to get to work more easily and it will be better for my independence.
Tell us more about sharing your experience?
It is great to be able to share my experience because I think it will help others to see people like me stand up to the NDIS. Other people will know that you don’t have to accept whatever the NDIS comes back with. Do what you need to do to live the life you want. It was great to talk to independent MP Dr Monique Ryan recently about the issue.
This profile is featured in the Summer Foundation’s 2022 Annual Report. You can read the full report here.
If you would like to share your experience, please contact us on: peersupport@summerfoundation.org.au
Check out our other stories from people with lived experience of disability here