How to Create a Circle of Support for a Person with a Disability: A Guide for Families

Creating a circle of support for a person with a disability is one of the most important steps a family can take to ensure the long-term wellbeing and security of their loved one. Estate planning for individuals with disabilities involves more than just financial and legal arrangements—it’s about building a network of people and systems that can support them emotionally, physically, and financially. Drawing on the insights of Bronwyn Wandell, a disability estate planning advocate, this guide provides a roadmap to creating that essential circle of support.

What is a Circle of Support?

A circle of support is a group of people—family, friends, professionals, and community members—who come together to ensure that a person with a disability is surrounded by care and assistance throughout their life. This network addresses different areas of the individual’s life, including:

- Financial stability

- Health and wellbeing

- Social connection

- Advocacy and decision-making

For families with special needs children or adult family members, this circle acts as both a safety net and a lifeline, especially as parents age or can no longer provide day-to-day care.

1. Start with a Solid Legal Foundation

The first step in creating a circle of support is to have a solid legal foundation. This is vital in protecting assets for the benefit of the person with a disability while allowing them to access necessary government support. A special disability trust or testamentary trust can be used, ensuring that the individual’s future is protected in case of the death of key family members.

2. Identify Key People in Your Circle

To build a robust support network, identify individuals who can play a role in different aspects of the person’s life. These might include:

- Family members who understand the person’s unique needs and can offer emotional and practical support.

- Professionals such as doctors, accountants, therapists, or financial planners who can manage health care, wellbeing, and financial decisions.

- Advocates who will speak up for the person with a disability when they cannot advocate for themselves (such as a SAPEPAA and Board of Guardians member like Bronwyn Wandell).

We advise families to plan for continuity, appointing both short-term and long-term guardians or trustees who can step in if a key person in the circle is no longer able to fulfill their role.

3. Build a Team of Professional Support

No family should feel they need to go it alone when planning for the long-term future of a loved one with a disability. Building a professional team—including financial advisors, accountants, estate planners, lawyers, and health care providers—ensures that your family has access to expert guidance and support.

It’s especially important to engage professionals who specialise in disability planning, as they will understand the intricacies of laws related to government benefits, tax planning, and trust management.

4. Create a Plan for the Future

Once your circle of support is in place, it’s crucial to create a long-term plan that details who will be responsible for various aspects of care and decision-making. This plan should cover areas such as:

- Housing: Where will the person with a disability live, and how will housing be funded and managed?

- Healthcare: What are their ongoing medical needs, and who will manage these?

- Social Engagement: How will the person remain connected to their community and continue participating in activities they enjoy?

- Financial Support: How will their expenses be covered, and who will oversee financial decisions?

A properly structured plan, regularly reviewed and updated, provides peace of mind for both the person with a disability and their family.

5. Foster Independence and Empowerment

While the goal of a circle of support is to provide care and guidance, it’s also important to foster independence and empowerment for the person with a disability. This includes the importance of enabling individuals to make their own decisions where possible, be it through supported decision-making frameworks or the involvement of an advocate who truly understands their wishes.

6. Stay Connected and Communicate Regularly

Creating a circle of support is an ongoing process. Regular communication among members of the circle is crucial to ensure everyone is aligned and aware of any changes in the person’s needs or circumstances. Regular family meetings or updates between professionals, family members, and friends can help ensure the person with a disability continues to receive the care and attention they deserve.

Conclusion: The Peace of Mind That Comes from Thoughtful Planning

Building a circle of support for a person with a disability requires careful planning, legal expertise, and a compassionate approach.Bronwyn often emphasizes that this is not just about ensuring future financial stability but about creating a life of dignity, engagement, and security for your loved one. By taking the time to identify the right people, build a professional team, and create a comprehensive plan, you can have the peace of mind knowing that your family member will be cared for, no matter what the future holds.