Choice and Control: What It Means, How RCS Honours It, and What You Should Expect

At Real Community Services (RCS), the principles of choice and control are at the heart of everything we do. But what do these words really mean, especially for you as an NDIS Participant? How do they play out in everyday support? And how can you expect RCS to honour your right to lead your own life?

What is Choice and Control?

Choice and control is about having the freedom and power to make decisions that affect your life. It means you:

• Decide who supports you.

  
  

• Choose how and when supports are delivered.

  
  

• Have input into your goals and plans.

  
  

• Feel confident to express your needs and preferences.

  
  

• Are treated with respect and dignity at all times.

The NDIS is built on these principles, recognising that independence and self-determination are fundamental to quality of life.

How Does Choice and Control Look in Practice?

At RCS, we translate choice and control into real actions every day, including:

Personalised Support: We work with you to understand your goals, preferences, and routines — tailoring support to fit your unique life.

Flexible Scheduling: You decide when and where support happens, whether at home, in the community, or during activities.

Collaborative Decision-Making: You’re involved in hiring your support workers, planning activities, and reviewing your support arrangements.

Open Communication: We listen carefully and respond to your feedback — always putting your voice first.

Respecting Privacy and Independence: We support you to do as much as you want, encouraging skills development and self-management.

What Should Participants Expect from RCS?

When you partner with RCS, you can expect:

• To Be Heard: Your preferences and choices guide every part of your support.

  
  

• Transparent Information: We keep you informed about your options and any changes that might affect you.

  
  

• Support to Build Confidence: If you want help making decisions, we provide coaching and encouragement without taking over.

  
  

• Advocacy and Respect: We support you to advocate for yourself and respect your rights at all times.

  
  

• Consistency and Reliability: Your support workers respect your choices and deliver supports professionally and kindly.

Why Choice and Control Matter

Having control over your life leads to better outcomes, more satisfaction, and a sense of ownership over your journey. When you’re empowered to make decisions, your support becomes a partnership — one that celebrates your individuality and helps you live your best life.

Ready to Take the Lead?

At RCS, we’re here to honour your choices and walk alongside you, supporting you to live with freedom and confidence.

Want to learn more about how we put choice and control into action? Contact us today — your voice matters.