Support Workers & Expenses Incurred During A Service
The NDIS scrutinises all expenses to ensure they meet the strict criteria of "reasonable and necessary". It is important to know what expenses can be charged so you are not out of pocket - this blog addresses how to make sure that doesn't happen to you.
When delivering a service to a client, it is important to have a discussion prior to beginning the service about what expenses might crop up and who will be paying for them. A direct arrangement between the person seeking support and their support worker needs to be in place so everyone is clear about who will be paying for items during the shift.
For example support workers must provide their own meals during a shift unless there are circumstances where this is not possilbe, like in the case of attending a restaurant as a part of community access support. In this case, it is imperative that an agreement is reached about payment for the meal prior to attending.
Some items that require payment during a shift such as entry fees, transport costs and parking can be reimbursed by the particpant's NDIS funding.
It is important to remember to have a conversation with your client prior to any support service to ensure that you are both on the same page about expenses.
You might wish to complete the Professional Boundaries course on the Careseekers Learning Hub which can give you some tips about how to have difficult conversations and set boundaries with your clients. Click here to learn more.
If you are working with a provider or a support coordinator, you can also chat to them about the best way to approach the issue and you can always contact our team and we can assist.
To become a care or support worker, please visit www.careseekers.com.au/carer
To find disability support services, please visit www.careseekers.com.au/services/disability-support-workers
To find aged care services, please visit www.careseekers.com.au/services/aged-care-workers
To make a referral, please visit https://www.careseekers.com.au/referrals