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JCPSLP Volume 18, Number 2 2016 65
of the NDIA outsourcing the planner role for participants
who have complex communication needs to specialist
services who have experience supporting people with
disabilities.
Providing tools
A practical set of tools could be provided for all planners.
Basic communication aids could be developed representing
the life domains of the planning process to assist the
involvement of people with severe cognitive difficulty to
engage in the process. In addition, a set of images
expanding vocabulary options in each domain could allow
for a deeper discussion, perhaps supported by the use of
the Talking MatsTM approach (Murphy & Boa, 2012; Murphy
& Cameron, 2008). A non-technological approach that
allows picture cards to be manipulated and placed along a
visual continuum to indicate preference (e.g., like a lot, a
neutral, dislike) is more applicable for some participants
than on-line resources such as picture my future (http:/
which may be useful for other
individuals.
Providing information
There is a plethora of information about AAC on the web;
however, planners and plan supporters would not be aware
of the process of feature matching for aids or the support
needed to implement communication aids effectively. As
there is little researched evidence of the most effective ways
to inform planners about AAC, a multi-pronged approach
may be necessary. One method to convey information
would be the development and maintenance of an easily
navigated website with commonly referred to resources/
links. This could be developed through a co-design process
engaging the NDIS, planners, SLPs, LACs and people with
complex communication needs. It would provide planners,
families, participants with useful communication tools and
strategies that could be updated monthly. SLPs could build
the capacity of individuals with communication disabilities
to engage in aspects such as writing blogs and moderating
forums that would provide opportunities for social and
economic participation. Project funding for these activities
may be available through the ILC, but funding sources for
this type of activity would need to be finalised.
Conclusion
This paper has attempted to highlight some of the current
issues that present barriers for adults with cognitive and
communication difficulties when developing a plan through
the NDIS. The authors recognise the speed with which the
NDIS has progressed and while applauding NDIS’
willingness to implement changes, we would recommend a
number of adaptations to the NDIS to ensure greater
participation by people with complex communication
needs. Currently, individualised goals seem to focus on
acquiring tools, especially technological aids; however, for
people with cognitive and communication difficulties time to
trial different communication aids is vital. Supports must be
funded to enable participants to develop new skills, provide
time to develop trusting relationships with planners and
provide welcoming and inclusive communities. The
pre-planning stage for individuals with cognitive and
communication difficulties will be critical to ensure that they
have the opportunity to fully participate in the planning
process and effectively communicate their goals, dreams
and aspirations. The principles underpinning the NDIS
focus on increasing an individual’s independence and
community participation; thus, it is reasonable and
necessary that that the voice of all people including those
with complex communication needs are heard and their
choices respected throughout the planning process.
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