Your first meeting, made a little easier

Start with one thing that matters

A first conversation with a support coordinator or recovery coach does not need to cover your whole life. You might begin with a practical problem, an activity you would like to try, or a question about your plan. This guide is for a meeting with a potential support provider; an NDIA plan meeting is a separate process.

Before the conversation, write down one or two things you would like the person to understand. For example: “I want fewer people calling me on the same day”, or “I would like help finding a group I feel comfortable joining”. These are starting points, rather than promises about what will be funded or achieved.

Make the conversation accessible to you

Let the provider know about the conditions that would help you take part. That might mean receiving questions beforehand, using written notes, choosing a quieter space or having time to pause. If a particular format is essential, ask whether the provider can arrange it before booking the meeting.

You can also ask about bringing someone you trust. Decide what you want that person to help with, and whether there are topics you would prefer to discuss privately. A useful opening sentence is: “Please speak with me directly, and give me time to answer”.

• What is the meeting for, and how long will it take?
• Is there a charge for this conversation?
• Can I receive a written summary of the next steps?
• What communication or access arrangements can we make?

Ask about working together before agreeing

A service agreement sets out what you and a provider have agreed. Ask for an explanation you can follow, including the support, charges, cancellation arrangements and how to raise a concern. Make a note of anything you want clarified. You can ask for time to read the proposal and talk it through with a trusted person.

For a first website enquiry, keep information brief. Do not attach a plan, reports or medical history. If you go on to discuss support, ask what information is necessary, why it is needed and how it will be shared. Keep your own copy of the arrangements you agree to.

Leave with a manageable next step

Before finishing, ask each person to confirm their next action. A small note with the task, person responsible and expected update can be easier to use than a long summary. If something is still unclear, put it on the question list rather than guessing.

After the meeting, consider whether you felt heard and could follow the explanation. You can make another enquiry if the fit is unclear. When contacting Support Stream Solutions, a name, email and service preference are enough to begin the conversation.