The Value of Skilled Support Workers: Why Quality Matters for People with Disabilities

When someone is living with a disability, the difference between simply coping and genuinely

thriving often comes down to the kind of support they receive each day. While expert advice

from psychologists, therapists, and speech pathologists is incredibly important, it’s often the

daily presence of a skilled, caring support worker that helps turn those strategies into real-life

progress. They’re the ones helping to bridge the gap between theory and everyday life.

After a Diagnosis: Where Do You Begin?

As psychologists, one of the most common questions we hear after someone receives a

diagnosis—especially around neurodivergence—is, “What happens now?” For many

individuals and families, those first steps into the NDIS world can feel overwhelming.

A crucial piece of the puzzle is finding the right support worker. But how do you know who’s

the right fit? What should you look for, and what questions should you ask?

Recently, I sat down with Sean and Tarina from Help at Hand Support Services, and they

shared some helpful tips and questions you can use when searching for a support worker

who truly “gets” you or your loved one.

To help you make a confident and informed decision, here are some questions to ask

yourself — and potential support workers — before getting started:

What kind of support do I need?

• Do I need help with personal care, daily living, community access, or something

else?

• Am I looking for someone with specific training (e.g., mental health, autism support,

manual handling)?

What personality or communication style suits me best?

• Do I prefer someone chatty and outgoing, or calm and quiet?

• Is it important that they speak a particular language or understand a specific culture?

When do I need support?

• Are my support needs during the day, evenings, or weekends?

• Do I need someone regularly, or just every now and then?

  
  

What values or interests would I like my support worker to share?

• Would I enjoy having a worker who likes sports, cooking, music, or similar hobbies?

• Do I value consistency, reliability, or flexibility most?

What makes me feel safe and respected?

• How do I want to be supported when I’m having a difficult day?

• What boundaries or preferences should my support worker know about?

Why the Right Support Worker Makes All the Difference

Choosing the right support worker isn’t just about ticking a box—it’s about finding someone

who can help someone you care about live a more meaningful and connected life.

When the match is right, something beautiful happens: the person receiving support feels

seen, safe, and understood. That sense of trust is so important, especially for those with

Autism, mental health challenges, or a history of trauma. When someone feels emotionally

safe, they’re more likely to open up, participate, and take steps forward.

A great support worker brings consistency—helping stick to routines, follow therapy plans,

and gently reinforce strategies that make everyday life easier. They show up, they care, and

they make a difference. And over time, that consistent presence helps build confidence,

independence, and real progress toward personal goals.

At the end of the day, a skilled support worker isn’t just helping someone get through their

day—they’re helping them build a life that feels meaningful, empowered, and truly their own.