Disability service provider opens homes at Booker Bay

Two new contemporary homes for people living with disability have been formally opened at Booker Bay on February 27.

NSW Minister for Disability Services Mr Ray Williams officially opened the residences on behalf of local disability service provider, Fairhaven Services.

The two and three bedroom villas in Booker Bay will be home to five women, four of whom have been living in the local community during the construction phase.

The villas were the result of a project that the NSW Department of Family and Community Services (Ageing, Disability and Home Care) funded as part of a NSW Government Large Residential Centre Devolution Project initiative and which commenced at Fairhaven's Kincumber site in 2016.

Fairhaven chief Ms Monique Cardon said: "The construction was delayed due to the cultural sensitivity of the site, but we have been able to work with archaeologists and the local Darkinjung community to understand the importance of the land and surrounds.

"The site will be treated with respect," Ms Cardon said.

"The two villas feature spacious bedrooms, accessible bathrooms, shared living areas, fully equipped kitchens, modern facilities and large courtyard areas.

"The back yard has been protected and will be accessible to the local Aboriginal community in consultation with Fairhaven and the residents."

Contemporary living options manager Ms Janie Cruickshank said: "These homes have been designed to support community inclusion for our residents and are located close to shops, clubs and a local movie theatre.

"Our residents are supported with 24-hour care by Fairhaven staff," Ms Cruickshank said.

"The smaller living environment provides opportunity for each resident to be supported to develop skills associated with everyday home life - for example, cooking, and grocery shopping, maintaining the home and gardens and inviting friends to visit.

"The move to community-based living is giving people with disabilities the same rights, opportunities and freedoms as everyone else," she said.

Mr Williams said: "Residents of the Booker Bay home will be able to enhance their everyday home life skills.

"From improving cooking skills to hosting friends for a visit, the sky is the limit for self-development."

SOURCE:

Media release, 26 Feb 2018

Sarah Williams, Fairhaven Services

Media release, 27 Feb 2018

Ben Sheath, Office of Adam Crouch MP