How Scope can help you find your dream home
This is the second article in our series on Supported Independent Living. You can read the first article here.
It was a dark and stormy day when the love affair between Peter, Scope client in St Albans, and horse racing began.
The 1976 Melbourne Cup is known for the sheer amount of rain that passed through Flemington Racecourse before the start of the race. In some ways, it was a baptism of fire (or water) for Peter, who was caught in the storm with his Mum. Someone helped them find shelter near the 1400-metre mark of the track.
Since then, Peter has attended possibly thousands of horse races, particularly the big ones like the Cox Plate and Melbourne Cup.
When he moved into supported independent living (SIL) in the 90s, the brother of another client used to take both people to the Cox Plate. Now, the trio still keeps this tradition as often as they can – come rain, hail or shine.
Angela, House Co-ordinator, said, “The joy I hear in Peter's voice and his excitement brings happiness to others. The passion that he has for racing and the knowledge he has is unbelievable.”
Peter can remember all the winners of the races he has attended, Angela said. Some of his favourite racehorses are the ‘unbelievable’ Wix, who won four Cox Plates, and Makybe Diva -- Peter has seen all of the mare’s Melbourne Cup victories.
“Being able to support him to carry on the tradition he started with his parents is incredibly important to him. It keeps the connection with them even though they're no longer with him,” Angela said.
Participating in horse racing makes Peter “feel tremendous,” Angela said.
Peter (right) with Simon, client and fellow resident, and Auma, support worker
“It’s his passion. Since he's lived in SIL, he's been able to go. He gets so passionate about it – it brings him so much joy and he just lights up when he talks about it.”
While the races are the highlight of Peter’s day, watching the presentations after each race is also important.
Peter typically attends Flemington Racecourse (as well as Moonee Valley and Caulfield racecourses), and said that people are really nice – they make way for him and make sure he can see the track.
One essential for any racegoer is their outfit. Peter works with support workers to make sure he's wearing the right clothes – for example, black and white on Derby Day. Peter has a special pink suit he's worn to races over the last two years. He says he needs to look nice and be part of the racing scene.
The last over: how a local cricket community charges in for inclusion
The end of summer means the end of the season for cricket clubs around the country. Some teams will celebrate success while others plan how to improve. For Will, Scope SIL client who lives with autism, and Ange, his mum, every season is successful.
Keeping track of expenses with Supported Independent Living
As part of our service here at Scope, we ensure your rental and boarding expenses are covered by the funds available to you. Let’s take a look at some of these expenses to help you calculate how much you need.
