NDIS growth and activities hub opens for Melbourne’s southeastern communities
For two years, people with disabilities have been left isolated and without access to much-needed service. A new hub in the south east is set to change that.
South East
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Melbourne’s south east will be home to a much-needed NDIS education hub to help people with disabilities develop skills impacted by two years of isolation and lockdown
Clyde North will host the Best of Homecare (BHC) Day Program Centre where clients will take part in community building enrichment activities.
Anand Tom, the director of BHC, said the centre would be the first of its type in Melbourne.
“There really isn’t anywhere else in Melbourne quite like what we have made here, with everything under one roof,” he said.
“We are really excited to open a hub like this to assist our clients and help them have fun.”
Mr Tom said two years of isolation, lockdowns and quarantining had been tough for people living with disabilities.
“We have a number of independent care residences surrounding this location, so having a place where our clients can come and spend time outside their houses is an important step in increasing their independence and sense of community,” Mr Tom said.
“Our goal is to be here as a support mechanism, so they can live as freely as possible.”
The Clyde North centre caters to all levels of disability and is carefully positioned away from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne to be a “safe haven” for NDIS clients.
“We have full facilities and day programs for improving everyday skills, like using a washing machine or a drier, or cooking classes,” Mr Tom said.
“We also have a sensory room, where our clients can go if they are feeling overwhelmed or just need some time to themselves.”
Mr Tom, who has worked in the disability sector for 15 years, said the centre would help ease nervous clients into the wider community.
“This really is a place where people can come and make or meet with their friends,” he said.
“We also plan activities on a monthly rotation, where we take groups out to practice catching public transport and doing their weekly shop, as well as more fun activities like going to the zoo or the beach.”
The centre runs programs from 9am to 3pm including music therapy, art therapy, cooking therapy, board games and trivia, leisure activities, life skills development and more.
Details: 1300 513 309.
gemma.scerri@news.com.au
