Value for money

One of the things the NDIA weighs up when deciding whether a support is reasonable and necessary.

What it means

Value for money is one of the factors the NDIA weighs up when deciding whether a support is reasonable and necessary. It asks whether the cost of a support represents good value, taking into account the benefits the support provides and the cost of other options that might achieve a similar outcome.

Importantly, value for money does not simply mean the cheapest option. It is about the overall value a support offers. A support that costs more may still represent value for money if it delivers greater benefit or better results than a cheaper alternative would.

In practice

When the NDIA considers a support, it looks at what the support achieves against what it costs, and compares this with other ways of reaching the same goal. A support that helps you build independence, avoid more costly supports later, or take part more fully in daily life can represent strong value even if it is not the lowest priced choice.

In everyday terms, this means it can help to explain why a particular support is worthwhile, not just what it costs. Showing the benefit it provides and how it compares with other options can support your case. Value for money is only one of the factors considered, so it sits alongside the other things the NDIA weighs up when deciding what is reasonable and necessary.

A real example

For example, Marcus asked for a support that cost more than a simpler alternative, but he explained that it would help him build skills to do a task on his own over time. Because it offered a clear benefit and could reduce his need for ongoing help, it represented value for money even though it was not the cheapest choice. Showing the benefit, not just the price, helped make the case.

Value for money — FAQs

Does value for money mean the cheapest option?
No. Value for money is about overall value, not simply the lowest price. The NDIA weighs up the benefits a support provides against its cost and the cost of other options. A support that costs more may still represent value for money if it delivers greater benefit or a better outcome than a cheaper alternative would achieve for you.
How does the NDIA assess value for money?
The NDIA looks at whether the cost of a support represents value, taking into account the benefits it provides and the cost of other options that could achieve a similar outcome. It compares what a support achieves against what it costs. This is one of several factors considered when deciding whether a support is reasonable and necessary.
Is value for money the only thing considered?
No. Value for money is one of the factors the NDIA weighs up when deciding whether a support is reasonable and necessary. It sits alongside other considerations. This means a decision is not based on cost alone, and value for money is balanced against the other things the NDIA takes into account for your situation.
How can I show a support offers value for money?
It helps to explain the benefit a support provides, not just its cost. You can describe what it will help you achieve, how it compares with other options, and whether it supports your independence or reduces the need for other supports over time. Focusing on the value and outcome, rather than the price alone, can help make your case clearer.
Can a more expensive support still be approved?
Yes, it can. A support that costs more may still represent value for money if it provides greater benefit or a better outcome than a cheaper option. The NDIA considers the benefits against the cost and other options, so a higher price does not automatically rule a support out. The overall value is what matters, alongside the other factors considered.

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