Sian
Content Warning: These stories are about violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation and may include references to suicide or self-harming behaviours. They may contain graphic descriptions and strong language and may be distressing. Some narratives may be about First Nations people who have passed away. If you need support, please see Contact & support.
Sian, mid-30s, has schizoaffective disorder, fibromyalgia and complex post-traumatic stress disorder.
Her support dog, Asa, is very important to her.
Initially the NDIS funded Asa’s training, vet bills and food. They also funded assistance with cleaning, shopping, going to appointments, community participation, physiotherapy and meal delivery.
Sian wanted to change the way she used her funding because she doesn’t do ‘any kind of interaction with the community’. She asked for a plan review.
During the meeting, Sian discussed her goals for her and Asa. The plan manager indicated the new plan would include funding for Asa.
But there was no mention of Asa in the new plan. Some assistance with cleaning and meal delivery had also been cut.
Sian told the Royal Commission she is ‘very grateful for the NDIS and the assistance it provides’, but she can’t understand why the NDIS suddenly cut funding for Asa.
Sian’s plan manager suggested she request another plan review.
‘I don’t know if I’m one of the only people that’s had review after review, but when something is approved … is there any way to make things easier or a little bit more user-friendly.’
Sian said dealing with the NDIS ‘really triggered a lot’. She often felt like she was ‘running around in circles’ and the uncertainty was very stressful.
Recently Sian changed plan managers and the new manager is very helpful and can explain things to her. They have a lot of face-to-face meetings, which she says is really good.
Disclaimer: This is the story of a person who shared their personal experience with the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability through a submission or private session. The names in this story are pseudonyms. The person who shared this experience was not a witness and their account is not evidence. They did not take an oath or affirmation before providing the story. Nothing in this story constitutes a finding of the Royal Commission. Any views expressed are those of the person who shared their experience, not of the Royal Commission.