Harrison finds a new home
Harrison was diagnosed with Tuberous Sclerosis as a baby. He can't speak but one of the few words he says clearly is 'Mum'.
This is the third article in our series on Supported Independent Living. Catch up on our first article and second article now.
Moving out of the family home can be a big change in your life – and for those around you. At Scope, we see it as a positive, exciting step towards independence and we’re here to help you work out all the practicalities of leaving the nest. Here are some things to consider.
Think about your finances
Firstly, have you considered your budget? Do you have the financial support to live independently and comfortably in your new home? You may want to get help from your family, friends, or support coordinator here. If living independently is your goal, then it’s a good idea to have this recorded in your NDIS plan – you may be able to access NDIS funding to assist with your search for accommodation.
Scope provides two options to promote independent living: Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) and Supported Independent Living (SIL). You can find more information about these in our first two articles: What is SIL? and How Scope can help you find your dream home.
Ensuring you have the right supports
Before you move out of home, it’s important to work out what type of support best suits your needs. This way, you’re setting yourself up for long-term happiness. Things to consider include:
- What do I need in my new house to help me with day-to-day activities?
- How much help would I like from a support worker?
- What activities can I already do on my own?
By asking yourself these questions, it will be easier for Scope and your care team to help you find the right home. Not sure what type of support you need? It could be a good idea to reach out to your Support Coordinator or Occupational Therapist – we’re all here to help guide you through the NDIS process.
Building life skills
To ease the transition to living independently, it’s a great idea to practice everyday life skills while you’re still living with parents or a carer. This way, you can build upon your skills within the safety, security, and familiarity of your current home.
See every day as an opportunity to learn a new skill – things like writing a shopping list, checking the bank account to make sure you can pay for the groceries, preparing a healthy breakfast, or doing the laundry.
Working out where you want to live
This is a big step on the path towards independent living. You need to work out where you want to live. For example, do you want to live close to family and friends, your medical centre, any day programs you attend, shopping centres and cafes, or perhaps public transport? Don’t forget, family and friends can always come and visit you at your new home.
Scope has homes in multiple locations that may suit your wants and needs. Browse our available properties now – if you see something you like the look of, you can always request an inspection to check it out!
Ready to get started?
Finding a new home can be an emotionally challenging time but remember, embarking on a new journey to independence can be exhilarating. Often, it’s the first step to fulfilling life goals.
If you or someone you care for is thinking about moving and living independently, you are welcome to reach out to our team. Scope is here to guide your transition every step of the way!
What is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
With all the different support options funded by the NDIS it can be confusing. Let’s look at one of those supports – Supported Independent Living.
Tony is on the right path
Getting out in the backyard is a great way to spend an afternoon. But when you use a wheelchair and the ground is soft and muddy, it becomes problematic.
Scope client Tony from Church Street in Victoria has always enjoyed getting outside for some “free vitamin D”, according to House Supervisor, Nicole Allen. “We have seven residents at Church Street, most of whom have mobility issues. Everyone loves to spend time outside, but the uneven surface made that a bit dangerous.”
