The Benefits of Group-Based NDIS Supports vs. 1:1 Support

One of the most common questions we hear from families is:

“Should my child be in a group, or have 1:1 support?”

The short answer? There’s no one-size-fits-all. Both group-based and 1:1 supports offer incredible benefits — it all depends on the individual, their goals, and where they’re currently at socially, emotionally, and developmentally.

Let’s break it down:

👥 Group-Based NDIS Supports

NDIS Group Supports are a great option for participants who:

• Want to build genuine friendships

• Enjoy learning alongside peers

• Thrive with structure and variety

• Are working on social confidence

Group-based supports can range from weekly social clubs to structured school holiday programs. At Loving Life, our group programs are designed to be inclusive, engaging, and full of real-world learning opportunities.

Benefits of group supports include:

• Practising turn-taking, teamwork, and communication

• Exposure to different personalities and experiences

• Lower cost thanks to shared support ratios (e.g. 1:2 or 1:3)

• Lots of fun and shared experiences — think games, outings, creative activities, and more!

👤 1:1 NDIS Support

Some participants feel more comfortable or get the most out of a setting that’s one-on-one. This can be especially important for those who:

• Are new to social settings

• Need intensive support or close supervision

• Experience anxiety or feel overwhelmed in groups

Benefits of 1:1 support include:

• Full attention from a dedicated support worker

• A flexible schedule tailored to your teen’s interests and needs

• A supportive space to build confidence at their own pace

• Can be used as a stepping stone toward group involvement later on

✨ Why Not Both?

Here’s the good news: you don't have to choose one or the other.

Many of our participants do a combination of both. For example:

• 1:1 support during the school week to build life skills or confidence

• Group-based programs on weekends or during holidays for social connection, new experiences, and fun

At Loving Life, we’re here to help you figure out what’s best for your child — whether that’s starting small with 1:1 support, diving into a group straight away, or blending both to suit different needs across the week.

Need help deciding?

Get in touch with our team — we’ll help you find the right mix of supports for your teen’s goals, personality, and NDIS plan.

Contact Us!