Reflecting on the Year: Supporting Participants and Families Through Transition and Growth


As the year comes to a close, it’s a natural time to pause, reflect, and look forward. For participants, families, and carers involved with disability support, the end of the year is an opportunity to celebrate achievements, acknowledge challenges, and consider what the next year might hold. At Diverge Supports, we see this reflection as an essential part of building strong, sustainable support networks.

This blog explores how participants and families can review the year, recognise progress, and plan for meaningful goals and supports in the year ahead.


Celebrate Achievements, Big and Small

No matter how big or small, every achievement matters.

Participants may have:

  • Increased independence in daily tasks
  • Built new social connections
  • Developed skills in communication or emotional regulation
  • Engaged with new activities or therapies
  • Successfully navigated challenges at school, work, or home

Acknowledging these wins reinforces confidence and sets a positive foundation for the year ahead.


Reflect on Challenges and Lessons Learned

Alongside achievements, it’s important to reflect on the hurdles faced during the year. Families and participants may have experienced:

  • Changes in support needs
  • Transitions between services or providers
  • Delays in accessing therapies or assessments
  • Behavioural or health-related challenges

Reflection isn’t about assigning blame, it’s about identifying opportunities for growth, adjustment, and better planning.


Review Goals and Support Plans

End-of-year reflection is an ideal time to:

  • Review current goals and supports
  • Identify areas where progress was made or stalled
  • Consider emerging needs or new priorities

Support Coordinators play a vital role in this process, helping participants and families review their NDIS plan, understand their funding, and make informed decisions about next steps.


Plan for the Year Ahead

Planning for the new year can help reduce stress, improve consistency, and ensure participants continue to thrive. Consider:

  • Updating NDIS goals to reflect current priorities
  • Exploring new therapies, supports, or programs
  • Strengthening daily routines and independence skills
  • Connecting with community activities or networks

Early planning can prevent gaps in support and make transitions smoother for participants and families alike.


Prioritise Wellbeing and Connection

The end of the year can be busy, but it’s also a time to focus on wellbeing. Participants and families may benefit from:

  • Spending quality time together
  • Maintaining healthy routines
  • Taking breaks from services when appropriate
  • Reflecting on achievements and personal growth

Building wellbeing into daily life ensures participants are supported holistically, emotionally, socially, and physically.


How Diverge Supports Can Help

At Diverge Supports, we are committed to walking alongside participants and families through every stage of the NDIS journey. Our role includes:

  • Coordinating multiple services for participants with complex needs
  • Supporting families in reviewing and adjusting NDIS plans
  • Building capacity for independence and skill development
  • Providing advice and guidance on transitions and new supports
  • Advocating for participant goals and preferences

Reflection, planning, and tailored support help participants start the new year feeling confident, empowered, and ready for growth.


The end of the year is more than a milestone, it’s an opportunity. By reflecting on achievements, learning from challenges, and planning for the year ahead, participants and families can enter the new year with clarity and confidence.


If you or your family would like support reviewing your NDIS plan, adjusting goals, or preparing for upcoming changes, Diverge Supports is here to help. Together, we can make next year a year of progress, stability, and empowerment.


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Reflecting on the Year: Supporting Participants and Families Through Transition and Growth
Navigating Dual Diagnoses: How Specialised Support Can Reduce Overwhelm for Families
Navigating NDIS Supports for Autism: Empowering Choice, Connection and Independence

Are you ready for support?