Home is a feeling, not a place. Once you experience that feeling, it will help set the foundation for a life of endless possibilities – just ask Victoria.
Since moving into her North Brighton-based Supported Independent Living (SIL) accommodation in November last year, Victoria has felt a strong sense of community and, most importantly, belonging.
The decision to move into SIL accommodation was an easy one, with Victoria’s family observing noticeable personal development after participating in Minda’s MyPath programs.
Although moving into a new home can be daunting, Victoria, who previously lived alone, has thrived in her new environment, which includes living with two housemates.
“The move has been incredibly positive. Our family has already seen a significant improvement in Victoria’s quality of life,” Victoria’s mother, Caroline said.
“Moving to a new place can be stressful because of the many unknowns. However, Victoria feels like she is home, which is an empowering feeling for her.”
“Victoria lives with two kind-hearted and inclusive women. Their friendship has played a large role in allowing Victoria to feel welcome and settle into her home."
Living in the vibrant coastal suburb of North Brighton, where people of all ages come together, has allowed Victoria to feel like she is part of a connected community.
“When Victoria is outside, she can see school students, people walking their dog or taking part in activities. Victoria loves being a part of this community,” Caroline said.
Participating in the community is one of Victoria’s main personal goals, with visits to cafes and going to the beach some of the outings she enjoys the most.
Developing great social skills is another one of Victoria’s goals. Living with her housemates and participating in MyPath programs has allowed her to become much more social.
“Victoria lives with two kind-hearted and inclusive women. Their friendship has played a large role in allowing Victoria to feel welcome and settle into her home,” Caroline said.
“Participating in MyPath has allowed Victoria to create friendships, as well as develop skills and use them in all parts of her life. She has a sense of pride in everything she does at MyPath,” Victoria’s sister Allegra said.
Allegra said her family has noticed “significant improvements” since moving into her North Brighton home, with her quality of life increasing markedly.
“Our family has already seen some significant improvements since the move. Victoria is much more articulate and is keen to embrace new things – which we could have never imagined,” Allegra said.
“Victoria now has meaning in her life. She has found such happiness in this move and her family are very appreciative to Minda."
Since settling into Minda, Caroline and her family have felt real sense of delight to see Victoria be in a place in which she feels fully at home.
“Victoria has access to support when needed and this gives her family peace of mind and confidence that she is being cared for,” Allegra said.
The move has provided a place for Victoria to feel safe and secure, while allowing her to live her best possible life. Victoria has now found a community she wants to immerse herself in, both now and into the future.
“Victoria now has meaning in her life. She has found such happiness in this move and her family are very appreciative to Minda,” Caroline said.
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 here.
Visit our Home & Living Supports page to view all the current SIL vacancies Minda has available.