What is an impact statement? 

An Impact Statement (sometimes referred to as a carer 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 verify how much care and support an individual may need and may affect their level fo funding received. An Impact Statement is not compulsory but can have an effect on the outcome.

What are the benefits of an Impact Statement?

Impact Statements are a great way to give the planner or reviewer a holistic view into someone’s disability and how it impacts their lives around them. Often informal supports are able to give detailed insight into why certain supports or therapies are needed. It is important to be thorough when describing how essential these supports or therapies are. 

What can be included in an Impact Statement?

Impact Statements can include a number of things including:

• A detailed description of all informal supports received from family members or friends.
• A detail of what physical supports are needed and how and when they are used – ie frames, walkers, transport. 
• A detailed walkthrough of what care supports are provided (by both formal and informal carers) which would include what was done, how long care had to be provided for and what resources were used. 
• What kinds of social and community participation do the individuals enjoy? How does it make them feel? How often do they get to participate in this? 
• Do you provide emotional support? What is the type of care? How long do you spend providing this care? How often do you provide it?
• Do you have to advocate for the individuals on their behalf?

How do I format an Impact Statment?

A great way to format your impact 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: 

• 1. Daily Living 
• 2. Home 
• 3. Health and Well-being 
• 4. Lifelong Learning 
• 5. Work 
• 6. Social and Community Participation 
• 7. Relationships 
• 8. Choice and Control 

You can read more about what each category includes here.

An Impact Statement is important to show the assessor the everyday difficulties experienced by the individual and their family. It can often be uncomfortable to mention all these things, but it is essential to give the assessor a complete overview of what supports and needed and therefore the appropriate level of funding. 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.

For further information on writing Impact Statements, you can always contact our team for assistance on info@tappon.co

We also have a useful “Preparing for your Plan Review” Document available here

Learn more about using tappON to receive the services you want, on your own terms.