STEPS TO INDEPENDENT LIVING

/in /by

As we come into 2023 and even look towards 2024, Interchange Outer East (IOE) has vacancies on two programs supporting young adults to take steps to independent living. These programs support young adults with disability in small groups to learn all that is involved in living outside the family home. From self care (hygiene, grooming, exercise) to meal preparation, social skills (respecting others, conflict resolution, teamwork), domestic tasks, life skills and more; participants will experience all facets of living independently with support from dedicated IOE staff.

For any young adult, taking steps to living independently can be a daunting prospect. This is why Interchange Outer East offers two different programs for young adults to develop their skills and independence.

House Intensive

The IOE House Intensive program supports participants to have a taste of independent living one night and 2 days each week in one of our rental homes in Chirnside Park and Scoresby. This program is covered by NDIS; there are minimal out of pocket costs. Participants in this program will have goals relating to increasing independent living skills such as domestic tasks, self-care, budgeting, and social skills. Each small, tailored group supports participants to learn all that is involved living outside the family home whilst being supported 24/7 by our passionate and skilled staff. Participants in the program may be working towards differing levels of independence. For some, this may simply start with becoming comfortable away from the family home. For others they may commence the program with far higher expectations and goals they wish to achieve.

Suitable participants may transition into our next steps Home Experience Program (HEP) where three housemates live together in a rental property for six months. 

For House Intensive eligibility, cost, outcomes and more – view the program flyer HERE.

Home Experience Program (HEP)

This unique program offers young people over 18 years of age the opportunity to live in a share house for six months with two other IOE participants. Participants live in a rental property 24/7 for six months where they will experience fully what it is like to live independently with housemates. The program provides part-time staffing and a lead tenant overnight to ensure participants receive the freedom and experience of living away from home but with supports to develop and build on skills and capacities. During the day participants may choose to go to day programs, work or volunteer, or simply stay home.

To be eligible for HEP, participants will have completed at least 12 months in the House Intensive program and/or reached a level of independence to ensure that they are able to participate fully in the program. Further details about eligibility, cost, outcomes and more, can be found in the program flyer HERE.

Current Vacancies

Both programs are now accepting expressions of interest from young adults who may wish to take part in 2023 and/or 2024. Participants do not need to be registered with IOE express interest in House Intensive or Home Experience Program. For more information or to enrol in these programs, contact Linda Hull on 9758 5522 or linda.hull@ioe.org.au.