Supporting choice, recovery and participation: Information is the key to NDIS access for those with psychosocial disability

Abstract

Currently there is limited understanding of how people living with severe andpersistent mental health issues use and experience the internet when searchingfor information regarding the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Thisstudy aimed to investigate what information mental health consumers wantabout the NDIS and how they would find this online. A small exploratoryqualitative cross-sectional study was conducted using a naturalistic inquiryapproach. Brief semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data fromnine mental health consumers living in Hobart, Australia. Three emergentthemes were identified, (1) knowledge about the NDIS; (2) internet usage; and(3) the importance of language. The findings highlighted that individualsaccessed NDIS information from a variety of sources with a preference forobtaining information from people rather than the internet. Of those who hadsearched online for NDIS related information, their level of understanding of thescheme was quite limited suggesting that information provided online was notadequately meeting their needs. More generally, participants reported difficultynavigating NDIS literature due to language complexity. Participants alsoreported confusion regarding specific aspects of the NDIS scheme and amisunderstanding of the roles and functions of the NDIS and Centrelink. Thesefindings suggest that the information provided to potential NDIS psychosocialparticipants does not meet their needs, and individuals want simple guidanceas to what the NDIS is, how it works, and what funding opportunities it offerspeople. Access to clear and easy to understand information for mental healthconsumers may support recovery via improved uptake of the NDIS.