When Lilly’s parents set off on a long-awaited holiday, it wasn’t just a milestone for them; it was a milestone for their 25-year-old daughter Lilly too. For the first time the young adult with intellectual disability stayed at home on her own, with support from Northcott Wagga Wagga staff.
Over the two weeks, Lilly took charge of her home. She cooked her own dinners, which included homemade pizzas with barbeque sauce, did the washing, changed her sheets and kept everything running smoothly. She was even in charge of looking after all the family pets.
“I have five dogs: Nelly, Roxie, Red, Maggie and Stevie. And two cats: Smarty and Minnie,” Lilly says. “I had to feed all of them by myself. It was good!”
Her older brother Will stayed the first week to help her settle in, and support workers from Northcott spent the second week supporting Lilly in her home.
Access to Northcott’s Individual Supports services gave Lilly the opportunity to work on her everyday life skills and choose goals that mattered most to her. With the right support, she built confidence in her routines, decision-making and independence at home.
“Lil was certainly anxious at times, but the whole village pulled together to make her realise she could thrive when Mum and Dad were away,” her mum Lindy, shares.
“There were a few teary moments, but every day Lilly got up, went to work and kept going. We were so proud.”
Kim Bowen, Northcott Wagga Wagga Service Manager, says she is proud her team always focuses on providing genuine person-centred support as customers develop their independence.
“Helping people live their most authentic, powerful lives, surrounded by the right people and the right support is the reason why we all love the work we do,” says Kim.
“Lil is an incredible young woman who brings energy, determination and a strong sense of self to everything she does. She is actively building her independence and takes the lead in shaping the support she receives. Lil chooses the team members who work alongside her, and when new staff join, she confidently navigates those relationships, offering clear and thoughtful feedback so her supports remain consistent, respectful, and truly centred on her needs.”
Lilly says she enjoyed her time with her Northcott support team – Molly, Sarah, Jasmine and Aze – watching movies, walking the dogs and cheering for her favourite AFL team.
The best thing about being on her own was that “It feels great to be independent!”
“We worked alongside Lil to support her to plan every detail in a way that reflected her preferences, goals, and comfort. She showed maturity and confidence throughout, and afterwards proudly shared how well it all went, highlighting her growth and increasing ability to make decisions about her own life,” Kim says.
“Lil continues to show what is possible when capability, choice, and the right supports come together. It is a privilege for our team to walk alongside her as she strengthens her independence and leads the way in shaping her future.”
Accessibility and Inclusivity
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