Starting the journey towards a more independent lifestyle can be scary, but it can also be extremely rewarding. Increasing your independence can open up a world of possibilities and new experiences, and help you feel happier and more empowered by being in control of your life.
Living in supported accommodation is a great way to become more independent. Independent living options (ILO) funding can give you the freedom to choose how and where you want to live - and there are so many options out there, there’s bound to be one that suits your needs and goals.
With our independent living program for disability, Rise can help you find a living situation that’s just right for you, in a location that you like. We have a variety of houses and apartments across Perth, where you can be supported to maintain your independence.
Learn more and view housing vacancies here.
Once you decide you’d like to pursue a more independent lifestyle, start by taking small steps, and remember - planning is key.
Check out our top tips to help you prepare and transition to living independently with disability – and maybe even become a happier, more confident you!
Set goals and celebrate your wins
To start, think about what you would like to achieve. Maybe it’s cooking your own meals, taking up a volunteer role, or catching the bus to the shops by yourself. How can you take steps towards these goals? Who do you need on your team to help you get there?
Just as important as setting goals is acknowledging your achievements along the way. Every positive step you make takes you closer to the life you want to live – and that’s something worth celebrating!
Find your community and support network
It may sound counter intuitive, but being independent doesn’t mean you have to do it alone! Big life changes can be hard for everyone, so finding your support network of family, friends, and paid support staff can make a world of difference as you adjust to the changes and challenges of independent living.
With Rise, you’ll have
a team of qualified and experienced support workers who’ll be with you every step of the way, providing guidance and knowledge as you work towards living independently with disability – on your terms.
Understand your support options
There are lots of disability and independent living support options out there. It’s wise to do your research and make sure the supports you choose will be able to help you achieve your goals.
All support options should follow the National Disability Standards, which are rules to make sure you’re treated fairly and well. Read more about the
National Disability Standards here.
It’s also important that support staff meet all National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) training requirements.
At Rise, your team will work with you to determine the kind of support you’d like. It could be help with personal care, housework, finding a job, going to appointments, or anything else you can think of! Support from Rise is completely flexible and tailored to you – because it’s your life.
Find out more about supported independent living with Rise.
Consider your learning, employment and volunteer options
Once you’re settled in at your supported accommodation, it’s time to think about some plans for the longer term, like a job, further education, or volunteering. Think about your goals again. Maybe you want to challenge yourself by learning a new skill, meet new people, give back to the community – or all of the above. Or maybe you already know that you want to work at a café, or volunteer at an op-shop.
Once you have an idea of what you’d like to do, there are plenty of programs and services that can help you get there. The Australian Government’s Job Access program is a great place to start –
find out how they can help you find and keep a job and expand your workplace skills here.
And if you're looking for a rewarding career,
read about Rise’s employment initiatives.
Create daily healthy living habits and skills
Keeping healthy can make a huge difference to our mood and outlook on life. Taking the time to build healthy habits into your new routine is important to make sure you’re living life to the fullest.
Your Rise team can help you by providing advice about healthy eating, building skills in the kitchen, and supporting you to find a form of movement you enjoy that’s suited to your abilities – whether that’s joining a sports team or planning walks in nature.
We understand that everybody is different and we're keen to find out what matters to you. How can we support you to reach your goals? Call 08 6274 3700 or email
contact@risenetwork.com.au.
Find out more about independent living programs for disability at Rise