3.6.6.52 Assessment of independent living skills/life skills training for standard rate MOB

Independent living skills/life skills training

The main aim of an independent living/life skills course is the development of personal and social skills to facilitate greater independence and participation in society. These courses are usually directed at people with intellectual disabilities and may also include recreational activities.

If a recipient is undertaking a course that includes a component of independent living or life skills training for at least 32 hours every 4 weeks they satisfy the activity requirements for standard rate MOB. Such training in combination with vocational training and/or gainful employment, and/or voluntary work may also satisfy the 32 hours every 4 weeks rule. Any recreational component of the course is disregarded as part of this assessment.

In determining whether the course teaches independent living or life skills, the following factors are to be considered:

• the course/s should be tailored to meet the needs of the individual, and
• the course/s should include training in daily living skills that would assist the individual to attain or maximise their independence. Such skills could include, but are not limited to, personal care and hygiene, basic communication skills and interpersonal relations, money management, food preparation and transport use.

It is not necessary to have regard to the duration of the course or the recipient's ability or intention to find gainful employment at the completion of the course.