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How to Help Younger People Feel Comfortable with a New Support Worker

Meeting A New Support Worker Can Feel Like a Big Deal

Getting a new support worker can be exciting, but also nerve-wracking. You might wonder if they’ll get your personality, respect your space, or know how to help in a way that feels right.

It’s totally normal to feel unsure at first. The good news? A great support worker will take the time to make sure you feel comfortable, understood, and in control of the process.

They won’t rush things or expect you to adjust instantly.

Start with a No-Pressure Introduction

The first meeting shouldn’t feel like a big deal.

Instead of diving straight into support tasks, start with something casual. Maybe you meet at a café, go for a short walk, or just chat at home about things you like.

This helps break the ice and makes the first meeting feel more like hanging out with a new person rather than a formal arrangement. Even a quick chat about shared interests can help the connection feel more natural.

Keep Things Familiar with Your NDIS Support Worker in the Beginning

New routines can feel overwhelming, so it helps to start with familiar things. If you usually go for a walk in the afternoon, invite your new support worker to join.

If cooking is part of your routine, they can help in small ways without taking over.

Keeping things familiar makes it easier to adjust to someone new without feeling like your life is suddenly different.

You don’t need to change your whole routine just because there’s a new person around.

Talk About Your Preferences Early

Everyone has their own way of doing things. Maybe you like quiet car rides instead of chatting the whole way. Maybe you need reminders but don’t like being rushed.

A great support worker will listen and adapt.

The sooner you talk about what works best for you, the sooner they can support you in a way that feels right. Don’t be afraid to speak up—it’s your support, and your preferences matter.

Try a Few Activities Together with Your NDIS Support Worker

Doing something together can make things feel more natural. If you both enjoy gaming, try playing a round together. If you like music, share your favourite songs.

Even simple things like going for a drive, shopping for snacks, or watching a show can help you get used to each other in a low-pressure way.

Shared activities create an easier, more relaxed environment where you can get to know each other without pressure.

Let Trust with Your Support Worker Build Over Time

You don’t have to trust someone immediately. Trust comes from seeing that they show up when they say they will, listen to what matters to you, and respect your choices.

The best support workers won’t rush the process—they’ll give you time to feel comfortable in your own way.

Small, consistent actions build trust, like remembering how you like things done or checking in to see how you’re feeling.

Keep Communication Open and Honest

If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to say so.

Maybe your support worker does things differently from what you’re used to. Maybe they ask too many questions, or not enough. Open conversations help fix little issues before they become big ones.

A good support worker wants to get it right, and they’ll appreciate your honesty. The more you communicate, the better they can support you in a way that feels right.

Give It Time – First Meetings Can Feel Awkward

Most people don’t click instantly. The first few meetings might feel a bit awkward, and that’s okay. It doesn’t mean the match isn’t right—it just means you’re still getting used to each other.

Sometimes, the best connections take a little time to develop. If things feel off at first, don’t panic—it could just be part of the normal adjustment period.

Be Clear About Boundaries

You get to decide what makes you comfortable. If you don’t like hugs but are okay with high-fives, say so. If you need personal space while doing certain tasks, let them know.

A respectful support worker will appreciate your honesty and follow your lead. It’s okay to ask for things to be done a certain way—this is your support, and you should feel at ease.

Find Common Ground with Your Support Worker

Support workers are people too! Maybe you both love Marvel movies, gaming, or the same music. Finding shared interests can make the connection feel more natural.

It also helps to remember that support workers are there to help, not to judge. Having something in common makes interactions feel more friendly and enjoyable.

Know That It’s Okay to Switch Support Workers

Not every match will be perfect—and that’s okay. If a support worker doesn’t feel right for you, it’s completely fine to try someone else.

The goal is to find someone who makes you feel comfortable, not just someone who’s available. You deserve support that works for you, so don’t feel stuck in a situation that doesn’t feel right.

Have a Say in Who Supports You

If possible, be involved in choosing your support worker. If you get to read about them or meet them briefly before they start, you’ll feel more in control.

If you don’t have that option, ask for a say in how things go after the first few meetings. Being part of the process makes it easier to feel comfortable and confident.

Encourage Small Wins First

Instead of jumping into big tasks, start with smaller ones. Maybe they help make a snack before they assist with bigger meal prep. Maybe they sit with you for a short time before joining in activities.

Small wins help build confidence in the match. The little things matter and help build a strong foundation of trust.

The Right NDIS Support Worker Will Respect Your Independence

A great support worker won’t take over—they’ll work with you. They’ll check in, offer help when needed, and step back when you want to do things yourself.

The goal is to feel supported, not controlled. Feeling in charge of your own support makes a big difference in your confidence and happiness.

Take Things at Your Own Pace

You get to decide how fast (or slow) you adjust to a new support worker. Some people click in a week, others need more time. However you feel is completely okay.

A good support worker will match your pace and not push too hard. You deserve to feel in control of how support is introduced into your life.

Feeling Comfortable Takes Time – And That’s Okay

Starting with a new support worker can feel like a big change, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Small steps, honest conversations, and familiar routines can make the process easier.

With the right match, support becomes something that feels natural—like having someone around who just gets you. Finding the right balance takes time, but when it works, it can be life-changing.

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