The NDIS is not known for its simplicity. And while the scheme is under a massive review to return it to its intended purpose, some clients continue to face complex barriers to gaining the support they need.

Enter Specialist Support Coordinators (SSC) like George Neophytou. George, who has a Master of Disability Practice, has been a SSC with VMCH for two years.

Support Coordinators help people with disability to navigate the NDIS and get the best out of their care plans. SCCs offer the highest level of coordination available for people who have more complex needs, such as those in a crisis situation or needing support from multiple organisations.

George says his ability to “think outside the box” has helped many of his 30 clients achieve life-changing outcomes.

“The NDIS can be overwhelming for many,” George says. “My role ensures collective collaboration between providers, specialists and the family. Without SSC’s overseeing the NDIS plan and key stakeholders – the plan could be underutilised, which could lead to a drastic lack of required support for the client, negatively impacting their day-to-day life.”

George recalls the journey of a client he recently worked with to help find short-term accommodation.

The client had spent most of 2023 living in hospital. It was difficult to ensure I could find accommodation that supported their needs and was close to family. This client is now engaging socially and smiling more, sharing their bubbly personality with staff and family.”

Seeing his clients achieve their goals is what George finds most rewarding.

There are always challenges to the role, and it can get quite stressful, but when the clients have a win, it reinforces the notion that without the SSC this probably wouldn’t have been possible.”

If you’d like to learn more about SSC or Support Coordination with VMCH, call 1300 698 624.