writing a carer statement (template)
when do i need to write a carer statement?
A Carer Statement (sometimes referred to as an Impact Statement) is a written letter by someone who cares for or is involved in the treatment of an individual living with a disability.
It details in depth how their disability is impacting their life and the lives of those around them.
It is used by the NDIA to demonstrate the everyday difficulties experienced by the individual and their family and to verify how much care and support an individual may need. This allows the NDIA to have an overview of what supports are needed.
A Carer/Impact Statement is not compulsory but most certainly can affect the level of funding received as it will provide a more accurate picture.
The NDIA won’t always ask for supporting letters/statements but these can help strengthen your application because it provides a clear picture of the supports that are needed.
It is important to remember you are not complaining or asking for too much – you are simply letting them know what you and your loved ones' daily life is like.
Who can provide a Carer statement?
An impact statement can also be provided by any person, family member or provider that supports and cares for a person with a disability. Their input may be beneficial in communicating to the NDIS the level of support needed.
how do i write a carer statement?
There is no formal guideline to develop a Carer’s Statement. It could be an informal letter or a structured statement.
Either way, it should include information about the person you care for:
- their disability and how it impacts their day to day functioning
- what they need support with, and what their carer does to support them
- your own needs and goals as a carer, and how the caring role affects you
- whether you can keep caring for them in the same way into the future
- what other informal supports they have, such as family or friends
- any other important information for the NDIA to know when assessing which supports they might require.
Another way to formulate a statement is to address each of the main 8 categories within the NDIS and then explain:
- what supports are provided,
- how often,
- the cost involved
- as well as the emotional impact that can sometimes occur.
These 8 categories are:
- Daily Living
- Home
- Health and Well-being
- Lifelong Learning
- Work
- Social and Community Participation
- Relationships
- Choice and Control
Describe your worst day so that you communicate the maximum amount of support provided.