Interview with Cathy – Tenant

Cathy lives in a Guardian Living Australia apartment. Here is the story of her journey to becoming a tenant:

I am a quadriplegic with a tracheotomy, I had a spinal infarction at the level of C2 in 2017.

I was introduced to Guardian Living by Critical Second, after searching for an apartment for six months.

I needed an apartment that would cater my extensive high intense needs, I needed space to move around in my wheelchair, a balcony, storage, technology that would allow me to be independent and on-site support.

Previously I was living in hospital for three years then I moved to a ventilator accommodation service for three years.  I enjoyed the time I had at this service as it gave me a chance to breathe, to go outside and prepare myself to move into  my own home.

I started working on moving out a year before. It was a long process but I was very lucky to  have amazing people that helped me on my way.

The steps were:

• I found a support coordinator who specialises in applying to NDIS for accommodation.
• I applied for STA and NDIS funding.
• I made a list of what I require in an apartment, then started searching on the internet. I asked people if they knew of any accessible apartments.
• I applied for the apartment.
• I found staff to work with me, I have to have 24 hours care, I was so scared about moving out. Critical Second helped me source and train the first group of my support staff.
• When I was searching for an apartment, I wanted easy access public transport and access to good food. I was very excited to find the railway station very close to my Essendon apartment; it is so good to be able to catch a train and go anywhere. I also found restaurants, cafes and many services close by that I can access by my chair in walking distance.

To move into an apartment by myself, I had to ensure that I was able to be as independent as possible. The Guardian Living Australia apartment offered an amazing array of technology solutions (from operating my call bells to opening and closing the front door from my iPad and phone). The Onsite Shared Support are quick and reliable thanks to the internal intercom system and the friendly hands on approach has encouraged me to feel safe in my home.

I set up a two week roster by talking to staff about what hours they were available. We set up a WhatsApp group so I could communicate with everyone and they could communicate between each other. I post a roster every two weeks and staff arrange exchange of shifts between each other and myself.

Independence is possible. I would say that you need to research where you want to live, what or if you need extra services, and who you want to support you? If you’re bringing your own team, train them before you leave your current accommodation, Communication is the key.