Have you ever dreamt of travelling but worried about the challenges of organising a trip with a disability? Supported Travel eXperiences (STX), an ATAS and IATA Accredited and NDIS Registered organisation, can help take the stress out of planning, allowing you to design and arrange personalised, end-to-end travel experiences that cater to your specific needs and budget.
What the NDIS Can Fund for Disability Travel
It’s important to understand that the NDIS doesn’t directly fund holidays. However, the scheme can provide support to enable your travel dreams. The type and amount of funding you may receive depends on your individual circumstances and goals as outlined in your NDIS plan. Here are some key areas where the NDIS might be able to help:
Support Workers and Carers: The NDIS can cover the cost of support workers or carers who accompany you during your trip. These support workers can assist with personal care, mobility, and any other required support to ensure your safety and well-being while travelling. It’s important to note that the NDIS generally wouldn’t fund the travel or accommodation costs of your support worker.
Personal Care Supports: Funding can be provided for personal care supports, including assistance with activities of daily living (e.g., bathing, dressing, medication management) while you’re travelling.
Equipment: The NDIS may cover specific equipment you need when travelling, as long as it’s considered reasonable and necessary. This could include mobility aids, communication devices, assistive technology, pressure care equipment, personal care aids, and orthotic devices.
Activities: The NDIS can contribute to funding activities as long as they are considered reasonable and necessary to meet your disability-related needs and goals. This could include anything from group tours and cultural experiences to museum visits, theme parks, or even sporting events. Don’t forget to consider workshops, volunteering opportunities, or even wellness activities!
Working with Your NDIS Planner and Support Coordinator
To get the most out of your NDIS funding for travel, it’s crucial to work closely with your NDIS planner and support coordinator. They can help you understand what’s possible within your plan and guide you through the process of applying for funding for specific travel-related supports.
Short Term Accommodation (STA) as an Option
The NDIS also offers Short Term Accommodation (STA) funding, which can be a great option for travel. STA allows you to stay away from home for a short period for various reasons, including:
1. Making new friends
2. Developing new skills
3. Respite for you and your informal supports
STA funding can cover a range of expenses, including accommodation, personal care, food, activities and experiences, and therapy sessions.
Remember, planning a disability travel adventure can be an exciting and enriching experience. By understanding the NDIS support available and working collaboratively with your support network, you can turn your travel dreams into reality! To learn more, chat with one of your friendly agents today!
