Choice gives an individual an opportunity to take control of life’s steering wheel, and for 23-year-old Bradley, who lives with an intellectual disability, he's in the driver’s seat of his own future.
Bradley said moving into his new two-bedroom Minda Home & Living Support (SIL) apartment has opened up a number of fantastic opportunities, but most importantly, it has provided him with the independence to live his best life.
“I love living in my new apartment. I’m independent and do what I like when I want. I have a great house mate – it is a space where I can be myself and a place I happily call home,” Bradley said.
Bradley has also been able to continue living with housemate Jack, with whom he developed a strong friendship at another shared accommodation.
“I enjoy living with Jack – he’s a good mate. We have lived together before, so we get along, have the same interests, and know each other well. I am happy that we get to share an apartment again,” Bradley said.
When walking through the front door of the Supported Independent Living apartment for the first time, Bradley saw a blank canvas that he could decorate with his housemate.
“Decorating our apartment together, the way we like it, and turning it into our home was great fun.”
“I love living in my new apartment. I’m independent and do what I like when I want. I have a great house mate – it is a space where I can be myself and a place I happily call home.”
Another benefit for Bradley is that the apartment is within a short walking distance from Minda’s Assist Therapies. He enjoys being able to walk to access his NDIS-funded allied health supports.
Bradley and Jack are set to test themselves in the kitchen and build their friendship further by learning to cook together.
“We are looking to cook dinners together on Mondays – we haven’t started that yet but that will be fun,” Bradley said.
During the week, Bradley works full-time in packaging and hospitality. He also enjoys going out and about to explore new hobbies and attend places or events of his choice.
In his spare time, Bradley loves watching the footy, together with Jack and his other mates. A proud and passionate supporter of the Adelaide Crows, Bradley is keen to see what his team can produce this AFL season and has already purchased tickets for upcoming home games.
Spending valuable time with his family is also important, whether it be outdoor trips or hosting them at his apartment.
“I like to spend a lot of time with my family and often invite them over to my apartment for drinks or afternoon tea,” Bradley said.
“We are looking to cook dinners together on Mondays – we haven’t started that yet but that will be fun."
Living the most independent life possible is important, but Bradley also appreciates getting some extra support from Minda’s Home & Living Support staff.
Planning a holiday in Queensland to visit friends late last year was made easy for the 23-year-old with assistance from Minda’s helpful and caring staff.
The past months have been filled with happiness, and those emotions have stemmed from the ability for Bradley to live his life the way he wants, all while having access to the support he needs.
There have also been plenty of laughs, with Bradley often being stopped by other residents because of his “fame”. People can see Bradley’s face on Minda’s website, as well as other external material.
“It is funny when I get stopped by someone – it makes me feel like a celebrity,” Bradley joked.
Minda’s Home & Living Support (SIL) can help you find the right house that’s suitable to your needs and preference, with housemates that have shared interests and with the support you require.
If you have any questions about Minda’s Home & Living Supports (SIL), or the application process, please call 1800 164 632 or complete the contact form below.
Visit our Home & Living Supports page to view all the current SIL vacancies Minda has available.