Overnight support, active nights and 24/7 care: what is the difference?

Sleepover and active overnight support

A sleepover arrangement generally means a worker is present overnight and can sleep when they are not needed, subject to the relevant support item conditions. Active overnight support is used when a worker needs to stay awake to provide or monitor support.

The right approach depends on the person’s needs, risks, required tasks and the arrangements funded in their plan. These should be assessed and agreed rather than assumed.

What 24/7 support can mean

Some participants need scheduled support or supervision across the full day and overnight. This may involve different workers and shifts, a detailed care plan and arrangements for responding to changing needs.

A conversation about 24/7 support should cover daytime routines, what happens at night, staff skills, continuity, emergency procedures and how any higher support needs are managed.

Is this the same as Supported Independent Living?

Not necessarily. Supported Independent Living, or SIL, is a specific NDIS home and living support that can fund assistance or supervision throughout the day and night when it meets eligibility and plan requirements.

SIL is not the accommodation itself, and it does not generally pay for rent or everyday living bills. Ordinary in-home assistance or overnight care should not automatically be described as SIL.

What to discuss before arranging support

For more intensive needs, it is important to confirm that a provider has the right staffing, capabilities, registration status where required and capacity to deliver the agreed support safely.

• ✓Does the person need an active worker awake overnight?
• ✓What assistance is needed during the day?
• ✓Does the plan include the relevant home and living supports?
• ✓How will staff continuity and changes to support be handled?