A social support worker is like a mentor or older sibling. They can help you reach your goals, participate in the community, and (of course) have fun. They often have an NDIS Worker Check and have experience working with people with certain disabilities or conditions.
You can do all sorts of activities with a social support worker, from cooking new dishes, learning how to play cricket, and going to social events. It’s up to you what you do together!
So if you’re keen to meet new people and try new things this year, here are 16 activities you can do with your NDIS-approved support worker.
Visit a local museum or art gallery
Is it cold and rainy outside? Consider visiting your local museum or gallery with your social support worker! You can explore the rich cultural heritage of your area and take in some amazing works of art. Whether it’s artwork from a particular era or artefacts from different civilizations, there’s always something new to discover.
Go to the movies or a theatre show
Going to the movies or the theatre with your social support worker can be a fun and rewarding experience. Together you'll get to enjoy a night out and explore the world of cinema or theatre. You'll have someone to talk with about what you liked or didn't like, as well as get their advice on movies and shows they think you might enjoy.
Play mini golf
Challenge your social support worker to a round of mini golf! It's a great way to build connection and trust, while also having some fun together. It can also help you work on your hand-eye coordination and problem-solving skills. You can choose to play mini golf outside or with an indoor provider like Holey Moley.
Visit a local park or beach
Visiting a local park or beach with your social support worker is a great way to get out of the house and enjoy some fresh air. It can be a great opportunity to relax, connect with nature, and get to know your social support worker better in an informal setting. The natural environment can also help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost energy levels.
Attend a disability-friendly sporting event
Attending a disability-friendly sporting event with your social support worker is a great way to get out and have fun. You can meet other people with similar interests and cheer for your favourite team! Look out for sporting venues that are wheelchair accessible, have accessible toilets and quiet rooms.
Take part in a cooking class
Are you a foodie? Want to learn how to cook your favourite meals? Taking part in a cooking class with your social support worker can be an incredibly rewarding and beneficial experience. Not only will you learn valuable cooking techniques and recipes, but you'll also be able to share the experience with your social support worker. Together, you'll be able to discuss healthy eating habits, kitchen safety protocols, and meal-planning strategies.
Attend a disability-friendly music or dance event
Attending a disability-friendly music or dance event with your social support worker can be an incredibly enriching experience. It provides an opportunity to explore creative expression and build self-esteem in a safe and accessible environment. Look for venues that have Auslan interpreters and are wheelchair accessible.
Participate in a disability-friendly community event
Participating in a disability-friendly community event with your social support worker can be a great way to build relationships with people in your local area. Some great examples are fun runs, trivia night fundraisers, and community morning teas. You’ll get the opportunity to connect with people who share similar experiences, learn about different perspectives, and gain access to resources that may help you in your journey. Your social support worker will be there for guidance and provide emotional support throughout the event.
Visit a local farm or animal sanctuary
Visiting a local farm or animal sanctuary with your social support worker is an excellent way to connect with nature, animals, and your community. You can learn about the various types of animals in their natural environment while connecting with the farmers that care for them. It's also a great way to relax and de-stress from everyday life.
Go for a walk or bike ride
Enjoy the great outdoors with your social support worker by going for a walk or bike ride together. It's a chance to get some fresh air and unwind after a long day while having someone to talk to and share your thoughts with. Your social support worker can provide encouragement and help you stay motivated (especially when tackling big hills and stairs).
Participate in a disability-friendly art class
Bring out your inner Da Vinci or Van Gogh by participating in an art class. Not only will you have the opportunity to express yourself creatively, but you'll also benefit from the social interaction and support of your social support worker. You may even find a new passion or hobby that brings joy to your life! You can choose to do regular art classes with programs like Studio Artes, or a one-off Cork & Canvas session.
Visit a local community garden
Some suburbs have community gardens where neighbours can come together and grow all sorts of different plants (some of them edible!). Visiting a local community garden with your social support worker can allow you to get outside and enjoy some fresh air, but it can also provide you with the chance to connect with people in your local area. Spending time together in nature has been proven to boost mood and reduce stress levels, so this could be a great way for you to relax and take some time out for yourself.
Take a scenic boat ride
If you live near the water, why not take a scenic boat ride sometime? You can hire a canoe or just take the local ferry - whatever you feel comfortable doing! Being on the water can help reduce stress and anxiety and create an overall sense of calm. Your social support worker can provide guidance and structure to help keep you focused on positive goals while also providing emotional support throughout your journey.
Visit an amusement park or carnival
Visiting an amusement park or carnival with your social support worker is a great way to take a break from everyday life and have some fun! You can explore the rides, games, and attractions that are available, while also taking some time to relax and enjoy the company of your social support worker. Just make sure the venue has sufficient accessibility measures in place before you go!
Attend a local music festival
It’s been great to see the introduction of accessible music festivals like Ability Fest to Australia. These festivals give people with disability the opportunity to enjoy music like everyone else. They often have Auslan interpreters, quiet rooms and are wheelchair accessible. A social support worker can help ensure that the experience is both fun and safe, and they may even be able to introduce you to new people or bands that you wouldn't otherwise get the chance to know.
Go bowling or laser tag
Many Like Family Members love to go bowling and play laser tag. These activities can help you develop communication skills, boost self-esteem, and create positive memories. Bowling is also a great way to build hand-eye coordination. Laser tag allows you to get creative in problem-solving and strategizing with your social support worker. Both activities give you the opportunity to laugh, have fun, and foster a strong relationship with your social support worker as you work together towards common goals.
Find a Social Support Worker with Like Family
Like Family is an NDIS registered provider that specialises in social and community support. We help people with disability to improve their independence, build lasting relationships and learn new skills. Our social support workers (who we call Social Carers) can help you with the activities listed above, and much more!
We’ll help match you with a social support worker with similar interests and support experience, so they can build rapport with you and help you work towards your goals.
If you live in NSW, Queensland or Victoria and are interested in hiring a social support worker, join our community today!