A Guide for Parents and Carers: Securing School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) in Your Child’s NDIS Plan
Transitioning from school to the workforce is a significant step for any young person, and for those living with a disability, the process can come with additional challenges. School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) can play a vital role in easing this transition by providing the necessary skills, independence and confidence in finding and keeping a job.
At Barkuma, we are committed to offering person-centered support, ensuring your child gets the tailored assistance they need to achieve their employment goals.
Understanding School Leaver Employment Supports
SLES is an NDIS-funded support aimed at helping young people with disabilities transition from school-to-work. It offers up to two years of support, focusing on building essential skills. The supports are designed to be flexible, allowing participants to start at any time during the year and continue until they are ready for their next step.
At Barkuma, we recognise that each individual’s journey is unique. Some participants may achieve their goals within a few months, while others may need more time. Our approach is tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of each participant, ensuring they receive the support they need to succeed.
How to Get SLES in Your Child’s NDIS Plan
If your child is approaching the end of school and would benefit from SLES, it’s important to know that SLES is not automatically included in an NDIS plan. To ensure it’s added, follow these steps:
- Start early
Begin considering SLES as early as Year 10. This gives you ample time to explore the supports available and discuss them with your NDIS planner.
- Include SLES in your child’s goals
When developing or reviewing your child’s NDIS plan, ensure that a goal related to employment is included. This provides a clear basis for requesting SLES funding.
- Request a plan reassessment if necessary
If your child is due to leave school within the next six months and SLES isn’t included in their current NDIS plan, request a plan reassessment. This can be done by contacting the NDIS via phone, email, web chat or an online form.
- Work with our NDIS planner
During your plan meeting or reassessment, clearly communicate the importance of SLES and how it aligns with your child’s employment goals. Your NDIS planner will assess your child’s needs and determine if SLES is appropriate. - Be persistent
Don’t be discouraged if SLES isn’t initially included in your child’s plan. You can request a review of the decision and provide additional information or evidence to support your case.
What to Expect from SLES at Barkuma
Once SLES is included in your child’s NDIS plan, Barkuma will work closely with you and your child to develop a personalised support plan. Here’s what you can expect:
- Getting to know your child
We’ll begin by understanding your child’s interests, skills and preferences to tailor the supports to their unique needs.
- Goal setting
Together, we’ll explore your child’s work potential and set realistic, achievable goals.
- Skill development
Our supports focus on building skills needed for independence and employment, such as communication, travel training, career counselling, personal hygiene, teamwork and more. We offer group sessions, online resources and one-on-one support to ensure your child benefits fully from their supports.
- Regular reviews
We will regularly review your child’s progress to ensure the supports are effective in meeting their goals and make adjustments as needed. - Preparation for work
When your child is ready, we’ll help them find work experience opportunities and support them in their job search. Our ultimate goal is to help your child secure meaningful employment that aligns with their skills and interests.
Outcomes of SLES
The ultimate goal of SLES is gaining paid work in open employment and connection with a Disability Employment Service (DES). However, we understand everyone’s journey is unique, and depending on your child’s goals and progress, other outcomes may include:
- Further education or training
- Employment in an apprenticeship or traineeship
- Independent job-seeking
- Volunteering
- Community participation
- Employment opportunities supported by a Disability Employment Service (DES)
- Ongoing support in an Australian Disability Enterprise (ADE)
Barkuma is a high performing specialist DES that can offer continuity of support through their journey into and maintaining employment.
Getting Started with SLES
To be eligible for SLES, your child’s NDIS plan must include SLES and a goal related to employment. They should also be in their final year of high school or have recently left school. If you’re ready to get started with SLES or need help getting it included in your child’s NDIS plan, Barkuma’s Engagement Team is here to assist you.
Contact us at 8414 7100, and we’ll guide you through the process, ensuring your child has the support they need to transition from school to the workforce successfully. Securing SLES in your child’s NDIS plan is a crucial step towards their future employment.
By starting early, working closely with your NDIS planner and partnering with a supportive provider like Barkuma, you can ensure your child receives the necessary support to achieve their goals and build a fulfilling career.