A new home for greater independence

The chance to move into a new accessible home supported by Northcott was just what our customer Sue needed to work towards her goal of becoming more independent.

Meet Sue

Sue has lived in a Northcott disability home for several years. While she was happy where she was, she knew there was room for her to grow her skills and independence. Both Sue and her Northcott support team were on the lookout for the right property to help support her goal of living more independently.

When Northcott and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) provider Good Housing announced plans to build disability housing in Bradbury in south-western Sydney, Sue was hopeful the modern property would be a place to grow her independence.

Settling in

Sue moved into her new home in late 2023, settling into a self-contained two-bedroom villa with her housemate, Leanne. The pair have their own bedrooms and share an accessible bathroom and kitchen. They also have access to a communal kitchen and living space which is shared with other residents living in two self-contained one-bedroom villas within the property.

“I moved into the house to become more independent. While I have support staff with me 24/7, the modifications in the house, like lower shelves for wheelchair accessibility, mean that I can cook on my own and wash my clothes,” Sue explains.

“My independence has gotten better. I can do so many more things by myself now. I do my own washing, sweep and mop the floors, wipe down benches, bring in the mail and answer the house phone.”

Now that the benches are adjustable, I can also cook my own food.

Sue, Bradbury resident

Sue also has opportunities for gardening and planning the landscaping design, thanks to the level access backyard. 

Northcott Service Coordinator Jess Mackie says, “Since Sue moved into the new Bradbury home, I have seen her independence, productiveness and self-confidence greatly increase.

“Sue now makes herself a cup of coffee completely on her own. This is something that she couldn’t do in the last place she lived. I am so proud of her and it’s fantastic to see her grow in this way.”

Sue says she is feeling more confident, and proud of what she is now able to do.

“I’m really happy and I have learned to do so much. My staff support and encourage me to be independent. They let me try to do things by myself and only help if I ask. Northcott makes my life so fun!”

Northcott currently manages more than 120 disability homes with several currently under construction. Our Bradbury disability home offers a unique living situation for people with disability. Comprised of four self-contained villas connected to a shared communal living area and kitchen, the property is fully accessible with assistive technology throughout. Residents are supported to live independently within their own villas, but also socialise together in the shared spaces. Support staff assist with anything the residents need, including taking them out in the community.

Bradbury Disability Home