Coping with COVID -

This piece was originally written during the COVID-19 pandemic and captures one client’s experience during that period. The themes of isolation, connection, and the role of NDIS supports in daily life remain as relevant as ever.

Written by Anne Drury-Godden.

I sat down with a lovely person named Jane, who has been a client of ours for a short while. In that time we have come to know a humorous, and courageous, person.

Jane’s story

I asked Jane how the COVID-19 pandemic had affected her world. Jane told me that the major issue for her had been an increased sense of isolation. She also said that she had a stronger sense of her own mortality, and wanted to “put things in order.” Jane has a saying: “Life spins on a dime.” And while we use a different currency here, the meaning is the same. It had never felt more applicable.

Jane has little to no contact with family. Being able to access NDIS support has helped immensely. She has a Support Coordinator, a dedicated support worker, cleaning and maintenance assistance, loves coming to see Astro the pony for a cuppa and a chat in the countryside, and recently gained the services of a chef to help with meals. All of these supports helped reduce the isolation factor that had been so difficult during the pandemic.

Jane says that she now has a stronger respect for life in general, and feels fortunate, in a sense, that she has things to be grateful for. Her approach is to focus on the positives — nothing is permanent, and life is changeable.

Thanks to Jane for sharing her story.

Isolation and NDIS support

Jane’s experience is not uncommon. Isolation is one of the most consistent challenges faced by people with disability — not only during periods of social disruption, but as an ongoing reality. Disability can limit access to work, community, and social relationships in ways that accumulate over time. The practical support provided through an NDIS plan can address some of that directly: transport, social support, community access, and regular contact with consistent people.

But what Jane’s account also highlights is something harder to quantify — the value of connection itself. The pony visit isn’t just a nice-to-have. For someone with limited family contact and a physically restricted social world, it’s a genuine source of joy and grounding. The chef isn’t just a convenience. It’s a regular point of human contact and care.

If you’re struggling with isolation

If you’re one of those people who are still struggling to get some help — if you feel socially isolated, or disconnected, or unsure how to navigate the support system — you’re not alone, and help is available.

At Heartfelt Support, we do our best to assist our clients as we navigate change together. We work with NDIS participants across a range of supports, and we’re always happy to have an initial conversation about what might be possible. You can reach us at care@heartfeltsupport.com.au or on 1300 522 160.