Verdict
Day programmes build community. 1-to-1 personalises outcomes. Most providers offer both; choice depends on participant preference.
NDIS Comparison
Day Programme (Group-Based) vs 1-to-1 Community Access
Day programmes build community. 1-to-1 personalises outcomes. Most providers offer both; choice depends on participant preference.
Day Programme (Group-Based)
Best for: Participants wanting social environment and peer engagement
Pros
- Peer community (friendships, belonging)
- Lower per-participant cost
- Staff efficiency (1 facilitator = multiple participants)
- Structured activities and routines
- Stronger evidence for outcomes in groups
Cons
- Limited personalisation to individual goals
- Less control over pace
- Challenging behaviour can derail group
- Can feel impersonal
- Less skill progression per participant
1-to-1 Community Access
Best for: Participants wanting personalised community outings and skill-building
Pros
- Highly personalised (goals and pace match individual)
- Relationship-based outcomes
- Faster skill progression
- Better for shy or anxious participants
- Stronger retention
Cons
- Higher per-participant cost
- Less scalable (1-to-1 staff requirement)
- Less peer community
- Social isolation risk if participants don't develop other friendships