For many people living with disability the risk of isolation is real – but it doesn’t have to be the norm.
What are Day Programs and how do they help people living with disability?
NDIS Day Programs create opportunities for connection. More than just ‘something to do,’ Day Programs offer people with disability meaningful ways to build life skills, foster friendships and engage with their community.
NDIS Day Programs are structured support services offered in a group setting designed for people living with intellectual, physical, or psychosocial disabilities. They provide a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment where participants can develop skills, connect with others, and get involved in enriching activities.
Disability Day Programs are usually funded through core supports or capacity building budgets in a NDIS Plan, making them widely available to most NDIS participants (more on that later!)
7 Benefits of NDIS Day Programs
- Foster Social Connection: Day programs provide opportunities for participants to meet new people, form meaningful friendships and engage in group recreational activities that promote social interaction.
- Promote Independence: Day Programs encourage participants to make choices, try new things, and take ownership of their daily routine, building a sense of autonomy and self-determination.
- Discover and Explore Special Interests: Participants are encouraged to explore their interests and discover new hobbies through a wide range of activities and social outings.
- Build Confidence and Independent Living Skills: Day Programs help participants develop essential life skills such as communication, problem-solving, money management, personal care and decision-making. Gaining these skills boosts self-esteem and prepares them for more independent living.
- Strengthen Communication and Conversational Skills: Through group discussions, shared activities, and peer interaction, Day Programs support the development of active listening skills and both verbal and non-verbal communication.
- Access Quality Disability Support and Accessible Facilities: Participants can connect with skilled and knowledgeable support workers in safe, purpose-built environments that make it easy to join in, feel comfortable and included.
- Enjoy Structured Activities in a Relaxed Environment: Each day at Day Program is thoughtfully planned, with a mix of activities that are both fun and purposeful, allowing participants to build skills through creativity and socialisation – all at their own pace.
“I can’t choose just one favourite thing about the Day Program – there are too many! I love the people and activities. I always feel included. Fridays are my favourite, especially when I’m trying to score high at bowling!” June says.
Why are Day Programs important?
People living with disability can often face barriers to social interaction and community access. Without meaningful ways to connect, it’s easy to feel isolated and disconnected.
According to the 2021 study by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare,1 in 5 (19%) of people with disability aged 15–64 experienced social isolation. People living with disability are also more likely to face various barriers to participate in society, including those related to discrimination.
Day Programs play an important role in addressing these challenges, opening the door to new experiences where people living with disability are encouraged to foster positive relationships, engage with community and build a sense of belonging.
Along with social inclusion and friendship, Day Programs also help participants to develop essential life skills to support greater independence. Cooking, budgeting, travel training, and support with personal care all contribute to building confidence and providing practical tools for everyday living.
Life Inside NDIS Day Programs
NDIS Day Programs offer a rich variety of purposeful activities for people living with disability, both in-centre and in-community environments.
In-Centre Day Program Activities:
- Cooking and budgeting workshops
- Creative arts, crafts, sewing and photography
- Music sessions and karaoke sing-alongs
- Dance and expressive movement activities
- Games galore: board games, LEGO, cards and puzzles
- Gardening and nature-inspired activities
Social & Community Outings:
- Outdoor walking groups and accessible exercise
- Bowling, mini golf, and cinema trips
- Shopping trips and lunch outings
- BBQ, picnics and community activities
- Visits to local attractions
Through a mix of centre-based and community engagement activities, NDIS Day Programs support social connection, creativity, and everyday skill-building in fun, inclusive environments.
Lisa especially enjoys the program’s cooking sessions, where she whips up sweet treats to bring home to share. Karaoke Fridays with the group are also a favourite.
How to Access Day Program Supports
If you or someone you support is a NDIS participant and interested in joining a Day Program, the good news is these services can be flexibly funded from your NDIS budget under several NDIS support categories including:
- Core Supports
- Capacity Building
Support Coordinators or Local Area Coordinators can help you understand your plan funding, identify suitable service providers, and connect you with suitable Day Program services in your local area.
Ability Options Day Programs
Looking for a Day Program? Ability Options offers fun Social Groups and Day Programs across Sydney and the Mid North Coast for NDIS Participants seeking to build skills and community connection.
Our in-centre and in-community programs can be found in the following regions:
- Coffs Harbour
- Forster
- Kempsey
- Nambucca Heads
- Seven Hills
- Taree
