A Service for One or customised support model can offer incredible benefits — flexibility, person-led design, and greater alignment with individual goals and family values. But like any approach, it’s not a magic fix. There are times when a Service for One doesn’t work as well as hoped — and understanding those situations is just as important as celebrating the successes.
Here’s a look at when a customised support model might not work — and why.
When There’s No Clear Vision
A Service for One works best when it’s built around a clear and compelling vision for the person’s life. This doesn’t mean having every detail mapped out, but it does mean knowing what matters — what brings joy, what a good life looks like, and where the person is headed.
Without a strong vision, the service can feel aimless. Staff may drift into a “babysitting” role, or support may become reactive rather than purposeful. This can lead to frustration for families, low motivation for the person being supported, and poor outcomes overall.
Solution: Spend time developing the vision. Involve the person, their family, friends, and trusted allies. Use tools like person-centred planning or support circles to explore hopes and possibilities.
When the Right Team Isn’t in Place
A customised model lives or dies by its team. If staff aren’t well-matched, values-aligned, or properly trained, the service won’t feel safe or effective. High turnover, poor communication, or lack of initiative can all undermine the success of a Service for One.
Because the team often works without a larger organisational structure, issues can go unchecked unless there’s strong leadership from the family or a governance group.
Solution: Take recruitment seriously. Look for people who are values-driven, curious, and committed to the person’s goals — not just people with experience. And make sure supervision, communication, and team culture are actively nurtured.
When Families Are Burnt Out or Unsupported
Creating and managing a customised service takes energy. If families are in crisis, under pressure, or don’t have support themselves, trying to build a Service for One can become overwhelming.
It’s also easy to fall into the trap of doing everything alone — planning, hiring, managing — and burning out in the process.
Solution: Build a support network around the family too. That could be a circle of support, a microboard, or even peer mentoring from others who’ve walked a similar path. No one should have to do it alone.
When Systems Don’t Support Flexibility
Sometimes funding bodies, systems, or local rules make it difficult to implement a customised model. Plan managers may not understand the structure. Providers may refuse to work outside traditional roles. Bureaucracy can get in the way.
Solution: While these challenges are real, they’re not always insurmountable. Advocacy, creativity, and peer support can go a long way — but it takes time and perseverance.
In Summary
A Service for One isn’t the right fit in every situation — especially without vision, the right team, or adequate support. But when it is right, it can be life-changing. Know the risks, plan well, and surround yourself with people who believe in the same future.
If you are interested in exploring if a service for one could work for you and your family, you can take our quiz here – or learn more on our website.
