Disability Services Specialist

The NDIS Workforce Capability Framework describes this role as a Disability Services Specialist for services funded under the NDIS. Persons working within this role are responsible for using the strategies determined in the participant's support plan.

Generally, a Disability Services Specialist job description may include:
Intake Interviews: Conduct intake interviews of individuals with disabilities to identify their needs, strengths, and preferences. Evaluate individual needs and disabilities to determine appropriate support services and accommodations. Collaborate with other departments and staff to ensure seamless integration of disability services.

Risk Management: Identify, classify, manage, control and monitor those risks that threaten the Services provided and manage all associated records so there is up-to-date and accurate documentation of the risk assessment at all times. It is an ongoing process that requires the development of cost-effective control measures to reduce risks and maximise opportunities.

Workplace Health & Safety: Monitor and report on any risks and maintain high WH& Safety standards

Developing Individualized Support Plans: Assess clients' needs and develop individualised service plans that outline the specific services, interventions, and supports required to help them achieve their goals. Participate in reviewing plans to ensure individual goals and objectives are met and time allocated to deliver services is efficient, productive and maximised.

Coordinating Services: Coordinate with service providers, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders to ensure that people with disability have access to the resources and support services they need. Ensure that the relevant Standards and contractual obligations are consistently met.

Client Services: Assist, conduct, or refer clients for individualised assessments. Work cooperatively and collaboratively with support mechanisms, including families, team members and other service providers, to ensure the customer is supported by those who know them best. Working with the clients to monitor the quality of support, providing providers are meeting their obligations and working towards meeting their goals.

Rostering and Shift Notes Review: Allocate work shifts and duties to support workers based on their availability, skills, and client’s requirements. In addition, the coordinator will monitor staff attendance, performances and take appropriate action to address any issues that may arise. The coordinator will also review the progress notes to check critical details about the client's services.

Advocating for Individuals: Advocate for clients to ensure that rights are protected and that they receive the services and support they need to live independently.

Monitoring Progress: Regularly monitor and evaluate service delivery to ensure that people with disability are receiving high-quality services that meet their needs and expectations.

Maintaining Records: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all service delivery activities, including assessments, support plans, progress reports, and other documentation. Providing detailed reports to the NDIA based on outcomes and success indicators. Ensure written communication and reports are accurate, both technically and grammatically, as well as tailored for the audience.

Providing Guidance and Support: Provide guidance and support to family members, caregivers, and other individuals involved in the individual's care.

Identifying Resources: Responsible for determining resources within the community that can support the individual's needs and goals.

Incident Management: Promptly and efficiently respond to, manage, and escalate an issue, bringing it under control and minimising the impact on the participant and the organisation. Managing and seeking resolutions to crises and incidents promptly.

Ensuring Compliance: Ensures that all services comply with federal, state, and local regulations. The service coordinator may participate in reviewing the organisation's policies and processes, ensuring alignment with the organisation's standards. Likewise, it may contribute to continuous improvement culture that reviews client satisfaction indicators and implements action to achieve results.

Team Management: Teamwork - work effectively as part of the organisation's team, supporting, mentoring and encouraging your peers. Ensure your team members understand what is expected of them to perform their roles. Proactively communicate status, issues and other relevant organisational information to team members on time. Assist in recruiting, training and supervising Support Coordinators, Administration staff, and office staff. Proactively address or escalate performance issues where appropriate so they can be addressed immediately.

Training and Development: Provide ongoing support and coaching to clients to help them achieve their goals and improve their overall quality of life. Similarly, the se