Robert finds a community at home

For many people, a home is more than just a place to live—it’s a place where they feel comfortable, supported and part of a community. This is true for Woodbine housing resident Robert who has recently moved into a new home that is not only tailored to his specific needs but is also a place where he thrives socially, physically, and emotionally.

A new beginning

Robert’s journey began when his old home wasn’t meeting his needs. He often felt disconnected and would leave home regularly to stay with his family. According to Service Coordinator Nitika, this pattern began to change after his move to a new home.

To make the transition to a new home easier for Robert, Robert kept the same support staff from his previous residence.

“There wasn’t a shock of new faces. We made sure that the staff who knew Robert well came with him to his new home, and this helped him feel comfortable from day one,” says Nitika.

From isolation to engagement

Once hesitant to leave his room in his old house, Robert has now become fully engaged with his housemates and is actively participating in everyday life. Robert now takes part in a range of activities, from cooking with his housemates to attending community events, including magic shows, which are one of his favourites.

“It’s amazing to see how much more social and involved he is. He’s doing everything with his housemates now, and it’s clear he enjoys being part of the group,” says Nitika.

Although his sister, Deborah, misses spending as much time with her brother since his newfound independence, she’s pleased with Robert’s positive transition to the Woodbine residence. “It took a few weeks for Robert to settle in, but I’m thrilled to bits he’s transitioned so well,” says Deborah.

A healthier lifestyle

The team at Woodbine has also been supporting Robert and his housemates in making healthier choices. “We’ve developed a four-week menu that Robert and the others in the house had input into. He loves things like steak and chips, but we’ve made healthier versions, and the results have been fantastic. Everyone is looking healthier and feeling better,” says Nitika.

By creating an environment where Robert feels supported and empowered to make healthy choices, the team has helped him make positive changes in his life. “Robert’s health and happiness are our top priorities. We discuss every customer’s progress at team meetings and figure out how we can support their goals. It’s a collaborative effort, and we’re constantly working to ensure that Robert’s needs are being met.”

Making the house a home

The team at Woodbine make every effort to make sure that the house feels like a home for Robert and his housemates. Birthdays and special occasions are celebrated in creative and personal ways.

“We make sure everyone’s birthday is celebrated. The staff and customers decorate the house, we prepare a dinner and cake that the person likes. And we take photos of the celebration which are proudly displayed in the house’s hallway to make the house feel like it’s truly theirs,” says Nitika.

“Seeing the impact that this move has had on his life is why we do what we do. It’s about making a difference, ensuring that our customers are part of a community and feel like they belong. For Robert, this house is his home, and that’s something we’re really proud to have helped him achieve,” says Nitika.

Northcott supports people with disability by assessing their support requirements and finding a home that suits them. Once the new home is ready and everything is in place for the move, Northcott works with the individual and their support network to develop a transition plan. A dedicated housing team provides personalised service, ensuring an experienced and professional approach to meet each person’s needs.

Housing