Robbie’s Journey

Robbie has taken a significant step towards independence by moving out of his family home and into Alkira Specialised Disability Accommodation.

Robbie participated in a trial living arrangement at Alkira’s Short Term Accommodation, where he lived with his two friends for three months. During this trial period, the participants experienced life outside their family homes and identified the necessary skills for a longer-term arrangement.

Upon reflecting on this experience, Robbie, with his Support Coordinator, Vehra, started the process of applying for suitable Specialised Disability Accommodation housing. With unwavering support from his family, Robbie made the transition to his new home in March this year. This move represents a leap forward, providing Robbie with his own space where he can live life more independently.

Our Specialised Disability Accommodation offers a safe and supportive environment tailored to individual needs. Robbie has been actively developing his independent living skills, for instance doing his own laundry. Robbie has shown an interest in cooking – helping with dinners with his housemates and also preparing his own lunch for his days at Thurston street. Since moving in, Robbie has been getting along well with his housemates and personalised his room, showcasing family pictures on the wall, a comfy armchair, his own music system and TV. He also takes pride in organising his clothes and shoes.

Robbie’s family expressed their gratitude for the support they’ve received throughout this process. Robbie’s parents Wendy and Joe said, 

We started our journey of looking at independent living options for Robbie several years ago. After considering a few options we wanted to make sure he was ready for the next step. We wanted Robbie to experience a trial of independent living to make sure that he was ready. Alkira were very accommodating and after the trial we were convinced that given the right environment, Robbie was ready to take the next step.

We looked at various options and none ticked all the boxes. What we were looking for was a shared accommodation model similar to Perkins House, which is staffed by Alkira personnel. We were looking for seamless care from day classes to after hour care at his new home. 

A position at Shady Grove became available and this was similar to the shared accommodation model we were looking for.

The support staff at Alkira have been very positive throughout this process. A special thank you goes out to Vehra who was determined to find the right place for Robbie and to the Shady Grove staff who made the transition seamless. We are very pleased with the outcome and Robbie loves his new home.