Exploring the complexity of implementing National Disability Insurance Scheme plans for adults with intellectual disability: parents’ perspectives

Background:

With the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), creation and implementation of participants’ plans are becoming a research focus. As many families facilitate the implementation of plans, it is important to understand the enablers and barriers to this process.

Method:

This study investigated the experiences of 20 family groups with adult participants with intellectual disability as they implemented their NDIS plans. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed qualitatively.

Results:

Results are reported in themes of increased opportunities, navigating bureaucracy, building partnerships and impact on families.

Conclusions:

Implementing NDIS plans was complex. Funding was appreciated and enabled some adults to work towards their goals. Bureaucracy and the availability of suitable services and support workers were seen to be barriers. Further investigation about how families balance multiple roles as they work with their adult during planning and implementation is needed. Evaluations of the NDIS should include family experiences.