NDIS funding for swimming lessons: Can it be supported?
From beaches and estuaries to rivers and pools, when it comes to water, we are spoiled for choice here in Australia. And since so many of us spend our free time by the water, swimming is an essential life skill. Considering that most Australians learn water skills during swimming lessons, you may be wondering whether you could use your NDIS funding to cover the costs of your classes.
In this article we’ll find out whether NDIS covers the costs of swimming lessons and look at some examples of using NDIS funding to get in the pool. Let’s dive in!
Why are swimming lessons important?
Swimming is a fun leisure activity and a great way to exercise but it’s also an important life skill. Swimming has a long list of benefits that span from physical and mental wellbeing to safety:
- Swimming is a whole body workout and a low impact exercise and affordable way to keep physically fit
- Water can have a calming effect on our mind, helping to reduce stress and enhance our overall mental wellbeing
- Attending regular swimming classes can be an excellent way to meet new people, build new friendships as well as the feeling of belonging in a community
- Knowing how to swim is a vital life skill. It can help keep us safe in the water and prevent accidents
Does the NDIS fund swimming lessons?
In general, traditional swimming lessons are unlikely to be supported because of two reasons.
Firstly, the NDIS considers swimming a universal life skill that’s important for all individuals. Because of that the NDIS expects the costs to come out of your own or a parent/carer’s pocket. Secondly, the NDIS does not consider swimming lessons as value for money in terms of recreation. For that purpose, the NDIS often suggests exploring other, more cost effective activities.
For these two reasons, swimming lessons are often unlikely to pass the reasonable and necessary criteria for funding. However, there are still some ways you can enjoy making a splash with the use of your NDIS budget.
How can I use my NDIS funding to spend time at the pool?
Even though paying for swimming lessons under the NDIS might be limited, there are other ways you could enjoy the pool with the help of your NDIS budget. If you’re keen to go for a dip, below are some ideas you may wish to consider:
- Enjoy the pool with your support worker - if your NDIS budget includes funding for a support worker, it could be a great idea to search for one that has particular interest or background in swimming or personal training. Going to the pool together could be an excellent way to improve your water skills and learn swimming in a more informal setting.
- Consider swimming as a form of low impact exercise - if you cannot attend gym or engage in high impact exercise because of your disability, you may wish to consider using your Improved Health and Wellbeing funding to take up swimming. If your goals relate to improved daily living and increased mobility, swimming is a fantastic low-impact cardio exercise that provides a full body workout and is cheaper than hydrotherapy.
- Join a recreational swimming group - if your goals relate to social participation and engaging with your community, joining a recreational swimming group could be a great opportunity to meet new people and make new friends while having fun in the water.
If you wish to enjoy the pool with a support worker, post a job on Hireup to find a worker that’s experienced in swimming.
Activities and sports on Hireup
Hireup disability support workers can provide support to get out of the house, participate in sports and take part in activities.
