Just two years ago, independent living felt out of reach for Christine. Today, she stands tall in a space that’s truly hers – designed with her needs, dreams, and future in mind.
Christine developed an intellectual disability at the age of two and lived under her mother’s care in the family home. When her mother moved into aged care, Christine and her family faced a difficult crossroad.
“We were faced with some big decisions around Christine’s future,” shared Raewyn, Christine’s sister.
“Our mother wished for Christine to stay in the family home, but we were unsure how we could make it work.”
Determined to find the right solution, Raewyn explored the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and its individualised living options (ILO) – looking for a way for Christine to remain in her familiar surroundings while gaining the independence she deserves.
But navigating the NDIS application process proved challenging – a “long and arduous process”, Raewyn said.
That’s when Each’s NDIS support coordination team stepped in.
Making the complex simple with NDIS support
Each’s NDIS support coordinators helped Christine and her family untangle the complexities of the system, ensuring they understood every option available.
“When we explored the NDIS, we approached Each for guidance,” Raewyn explained.
“Each supported Christine in exploring all available options.”
In the end, Raewyn made the choice to self-fund a home extension, creating a custom living space for Christine while allowing full-time carers to stay in the original home.
Collaborating with Each, Christine played an active role in designing her new living space, to make sure it truly felt like home.
A home that reflects her needs and dreams
By May 2022, Christine’s vision had come to life.
Her new living space is more than just functional – it’s beautiful. High ceilings, abundant light, spaciousness, and modern comforts. From accessibility to amenities, everything is designed to suit Christine, making it a place of comfort, security, and self-expression.
Christine says it feels really good to have a space of her own. Everything is set up just for her, including her own bedroom and bathroom.
I feel good, really great, just having this space around me and being able to walk into my own bedroom and bathroom, set up just for me. It’s still my home, but with a touch of me.
— Christine
Independence in action
Supported by her spirit and a strong network, Christine’s new setup has given her more than just personal space, it opened a pathway to help her actively pursue wellbeing, independent living skills, and social engagement. And when she wants to recharge, she has a peaceful, spacious home to return to.
“I can visit my mom in aged care, join community activities and exercise classes, and go out for meals with my carers. Or I can enjoy the spaciousness at home and do activities here.”
A future transformed
Raewyn reflects on the journey and the difference Each has made.
“Without support from Each, we would have been a family in crisis worrying about Christine’s future.”
Need help navigating the NDIS?
Each’s NDIS support coordination service connects participants with informal, mainstream, and specialist supports. We work with you to build independence, improve quality of life, and overcome any barriers you may encounter.
If you or a loved one needs help navigating the NDIS, understanding your plan, or finding the right services, Each is here to help — Australia-wide.
