“There’s nothing more debilitating about a disability than the way people treat you over it.” ― Solange Nicole.
Working with people who live with a disability is a privileged role, and it requires a deep understanding of the individual’s rights as well as an empathetic approach to communication and support.
The NDIS Code of Conduct sets out the standards of behavior that workers must uphold when delivering NDIS supports. The Code requires workers and providers delivering NDIS supports to act with respect for individual rights, to provide supports in a safe and competent manner, and to take all reasonable steps to prevent and respond to violence, exploitation, neglect, sexual misconduct, and abuse. The Code also requires workers to promptly take action on any concerns that might impact the quality or safety of supports provided to people with disability. By upholding the standards set out in the Code of Conduct, workers and providers can help ensure that people with disability receive the high-quality supports they deserve. Ensuring every NDIS worker is familiar with and adheres to the Code of Conduct is vital in creating a safe, respectful, and empowering environment for people with disability.
Making sure your NDIS business remains in compliance with the Code of Conduct means regularly reviewing and updating policies and practices, ensuring all staff receive training on their responsibilities under the Code, and promptly addressing any concerns or complaints.
By following the National Disability Insurance Scheme Code of Conduct, workers and providers can strive to create a truly inclusive society where people with disability have equal opportunities to thrive.
All workers who provide support to NDIS participants must adhere to the code of conduct.
Released in March 2019, the code sets out standards that include:
- Respect for individual rights and diversity
- Safe, competent, and ethical delivery of supports
- Prevention and response to violence, exploitation, neglect, and abuse
- Prompt action on concerns or complaints
- Confidentiality and privacy protections
- Conflict resolution
It is important to note that the code also applies to workers who are employed by NDIS-registered providers, as well as those who work as contractors or subcontractors. Furthemore, the code also applies to the following workers:
- Registered NDIS providers
- NDIS providers who are not registered as well as their employees
- Service providers who offer ILC (information, linkages, and capacity building) activities
- Commonwealth Continuity of Support Programme providers delivering services to those over the age of 65.
The code of conduct includes provisions on confidentiality, privacy, respect, and dignity
The code of conduct is designed to create a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone involved.The delivery of services to people with disability should be done in a way that respects and maintains their privacy and confidentiality. This includes maintaining the confidentiality of the person’s personal information, and explaining and requesting permission to perform procedures that involve physical touch or the invasion of personal space. By delivering services in a dignified way that respects the privacy of people with disability, we can ensure that they receive the best possible care and support.
The right to choose
People with disability have the right to choose how they want to live their lives, and they should be able to make decisions about their own lives without discrimination. The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities sets out these rights, which include the right to freedom of expression and the right to make decisions about one’s own life. The NDIS also recognises the principle of choice and control, meaning that people with disability have the right to choose who supports them and how their supports are delivered. This is vital for ensuring that people with disability can live the life they want to live, free from discrimination.
As an NDIS provider, it is important to remember that the person with disability is in control of their own supports and life choices. It is our responsibility to support them in making informed decisions, rather than imposing our own ideas or preferences onto them.
FInal thoughts
The NDIS code of conduct is in place to protect the rights of people with disabilities and ensure they receive quality services. All workers who provide support to NDIS participants must adhere to the code of conduct. By doing so, we can create a truly inclusive society where people with disability have equal opportunities to thrive. At Brevity Care Software, we believe that by giving NDIS providers choice and control over their software, we can empower them to provide the best possible support for people with disability. Our NDIS provider software platform allows NDIS businesses to manage supports, schedules, and important documentation in a user-friendly and efficient manner. Visit our website and request a free demo to learn more about how we can support your organisation in upholding the NDIS code of conduct.
