Living independently is something many people dream of. It means having your own space, making your own choices, and feeling in control of your life. For people with disabilities, living independently can sometimes be hard. Tasks like cooking, cleaning, personal care, or leaving the house may feel difficult.
This is where the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) helps. The NDIS offers Supported Independent Living (SIL) and 24-hour Supported Independent Living. These support services are designed to help people with disabilities live safely, comfortably, and happily.
In this blog, we will explain everything about SIL in very simple words. We will cover what it is, who can get it, how it works, and how it helps people live better lives.
What is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is a special NDIS supported service that helps people with disabilities live in their own home or in a shared home with others. It is not about doing everything for you. Instead, it gives you the right support services to help you live as independently as possible and improve your functional capacity.
SIL can help with many day-to-day and daily living tasks such as:
- Meal preparation and cooking
- Keeping your home clean and organised
- Personal care and hygiene
- Joining and enjoying community activities
The main goal of SIL is to make daily living easier while helping you become more independent. It focuses on learning new skills, daily practice, and building confidence to do things on your own.
What is 24-Hour Supported Independent Living?
For people who need full-time care, 24-hour Supported Independent Living (SIL) offers help all day and night. Trained support workers are always available to make sure you are safe, cared for, and supported in your day-to-day routines.
24-hour SIL is designed for people with disabilities who have higher care needs. It helps them feel safe, comfortable, and confident in their living situation.
Families also feel at peace knowing that their loved ones are in a secure environment and getting professional care at all times.
Eligibility for Supported Independent Living
Not all NDIS participants require SIL or 24-hour SIL. Eligibility depends on individual needs and functional capacity.
You may qualify if:
- You have a disability that makes living independently challenging
- You require assistance with daily life such as dressing, bathing, or cooking
- You need supervision for safety
- You wish to live as independently as possible but require support in certain areas
- You want guidance to engage in social or community activities
Your NDIS plan will reflect the supports you require. An NDIS support coordinator will help determine whether SIL or 24-hour SIL aligns with your needs and NDIS funding.
How Supported Independent Living Enhances Daily Life
SIL is highly flexible and customised to individual requirements. Support can include:
- Preparing meals and developing cooking skills
- Cleaning and maintaining your home
- Managing medications and attending medical appointments
- Personal care tasks such as washing, dressing, and grooming
- Shopping and social outings
- Learning essential life skills, including budgeting, managing money, and caring for plants
For participants requiring more intensive assistance, 24-hour SIL ensures staff are available around the clock to provide personal care, safety supervision, and assist with daily routines.
The central goal of SIL is to foster independence while delivering support where necessary.
How SIL Improves Daily Life
Supported Independent Living can make life much easier and happier.
With SIL, you can:
- Live safely in your own home or a shared home
- Learn important skills to live as independently as possible
- Join community activities, meet new friends, and participate in events
- Go to work, school, or training without worry
- Feel confident knowing that help is available when needed
Many people find that SIL helps them gain confidence and enjoy more freedom in life. It allows them to make their own decisions while still having support when needed.
Tips for Living Independently with SIL
Tip 1: Take Care of Yourself
SIL support can help you with personal care and daily living routines. This includes:
- Washing, bathing, and getting dressed
- Eating healthy meals and cooking food
- Taking medicine on time
- Keeping your home clean and doing laundry
- Going to the doctor for regular check-ups
With help in these areas, you can feel safe, healthy, and independent.
Tip 2: Learn New Skills
SIL is not just about getting help. It is also about learning. Support workers can teach you skills such as:
- Cooking your own meals
- Cleaning and maintaining your home
- Using money wisely and budgeting
- Taking care of plants or pets
- Using public transport or planning trips
Learning these skills step by step helps you gain confidence and independence.
Tip 3: Join the Community
Living independently does not mean staying at home. SIL encourages you to take part in your community. You can:
- Visit friends and family
- Join social events and clubs
- Attend school, work, or training
- Explore hobbies and activities
Community participation helps you feel connected and enjoy life more.
Tip 4: Plan Your Day
Having a routine makes life easier. With SIL, staff can help you:
- Plan your meals and shopping
- Schedule medical appointments
- Organise household chores
- Set reminders for important tasks
A well-planned day gives structure and helps you live as independently as possible.
Tip 5: Build Confidence Step by Step
SIL support helps you build confidence gradually. You may start by getting help with some tasks. Over time, you can learn to do more on your own.
This step-by-step approach helps you:
- Feel comfortable managing daily living
- Travel safely to school, work, or appointments
- Participate in social and community activities
- Gain self-confidence and independence
Choosing the Right SIL Provider
Choosing a good Supported Independent Living (SIL) provider is very important for people with disabilities who want to live as independently as possible. A quality support service provider should:
- Have trained and caring support workers
- Be reliable and professional
- Focus on your safety and comfort
- Support your independence and life skills
- Work with you to achieve your personal goals
Choosing a local provider can make it easier to engage in community participation and feel connected to your neighbourhood.
Urcare and Support Services is a reputable NDIS supported provider that delivers reliable, person-centred support services customised to your needs. They offer SIL, 24-hour SIL, and other types of NDIS support that help people with disabilities live confidently and safely.
Safety and Comfort in SIL
Safety is always a top priority in SIL. Providers follow strict rules to make sure you are safe and comfortable in your living situation, including specialist disability accommodation (SDA) and shared homes.
- Homes are safe, accessible, and well-maintained
- Staff are trained to support people with disabilities
- Assistance is provided for daily living, cooking, cleaning, and personal care
- Staff are ready to help in emergencies
These details make a big difference. They help you live as independently as possible while ensuring comfort, safety, and peace of mind.
SIL and Independence
Supported Independent Living is about independence, not just receiving help. With SIL, you can:
- Make your own decisions about daily living
- Choose what you want to eat, wear, and do
- Manage your shared home or specialist disability accommodation (SDA)
- Take part in community activities as part of your NDIS plan
Independence builds confidence and helps you feel proud of your achievements. By working closely with your support coordinator and following your NDIS funding, you can learn new skills and gradually take on more responsibilities in life.
FAQ
Can I choose who helps me?
Yes, you can choose your provider and sometimes the staff who support you.
Can I move from SIL to 24-hour SIL?
Yes, depending on your needs, you can change your support level.
Will SIL help me join my community?
Yes, SIL encourages participation in school, work, and social activities.
Is SIL only for adults?
No, SIL can also support young people transitioning to independent living.
How to Access Supported Independent Living
To get SIL or 24-hour SIL:
- Talk to Your NDIS Planner: Explain the daily tasks you find hard.
- Set Your Goals: Show how SIL can help you live independently.
- Get Funding: NDIS will approve support if it is needed.
- Choose a Provider: Pick a registered SIL provider and staff.
- Start Support: Receive help with daily activities, personal care, and life skills.
Final Thoughts
Supported Independent Living (SIL) are very important for people with disabilities. They help people live safely, gain independence, and enjoy life fully.
With SIL, you can live in your own home, take care of yourself, and join your community. With 24-hour SIL, people with higher needs get help all day and night.
If you want to live as independently as possible, speak with your NDIS planner or choose a trusted SIL provider. With the right support, you can enjoy confidence, safety, and a better quality of life.
Living independently is possible with the right support services, skills, and guidance. SIL helps you achieve your goals, gain freedom, and take part fully in your community.
Ready to explore your living options? Contact Urcare and Support Services today to start your Supported Independent Living journey.
