Life-changing events can sometimes be scary! This can include moving out of the family home for the first time. Here at Activ, we understand that moving into supported accommodation is a big decision, so we had a chat to some of our customers to give you some insider tips!
Facing fears of moving out
For most people, the hardest part can be taking that first step, and the customers we spoke to shared this hesitancy in the beginning.
Zoey has just recently moved into supported accommodation, and at first she was worried about how big the change would be from living with her dad. Fortunately, she quickly settled in and now says she loves her newfound independence.
Jacinda has been living in shared accommodation for over a year and had her own doubts before moving out. She was concerned she would miss seeing her family but was really happy she still caught up with them regularly for quality family time.
Enjoying new freedoms
Many of our customers tell us that moving into supported accommodation has meant they’re able to enjoy new freedoms that independence can offer.
Socialising and making friends is one of the major benefits of moving into shared supported accommodation, as reported by Zoey! She shared that one of the things she enjoys most about her new home is all the friends she has made.
Living more independently also helps to develop useful life skills, which Zoey found out when she got the chance to improve her cooking abilities.
Customer Jacinda said, “The best part is freedom and having fun. I can do my own diamond arts, watch my own shows. Sometimes I go out with all three of us [housemates], or I can stay at home and relax and do my own thing.”
Our customer Nick, who lives independently and accesses drop-in support, loves his sense of freedom, sharing that enjoys having his own space, and loves being able to do what he wants when he feels like it.
Supported accommodation allows you to have an independent life and shape the future that you desire, with the right support to help you achieve your goals.
Advice for future participants
The people we spoke to not only shared their own independence stories, but also gave advice for anyone who may be interested in living more independently in the future.
Jacinda urged future participants to do what makes them happy. She also advised that “you can be more independent when you move out, and if you like living in the shared house maybe you can move to your own house.”
Nick had some inspiring words of encouragement for anyone nervous about taking the next step, “if there’s something you want in life, go for it. Don’t let anyone say you can’t do it, because you don’t know unless you try.”
Are you ready for the next step?
If you’re someone with disability who is considering moving out into supported accommodation or accessing drop-in support, Activ can support you to reach these goals!
We hope that reading through the experiences of some of our current customers has shown you that while everyone worries about making major life decisions, supported accommodation can offer you the chance to meet new friends, learn useful life skills, and lead a fulfilling, independent lifestyle.
To find out more about our supported accommodation services, get in touch with our team today. We can answer any questions you might have and will support you to prepare for this exciting new stage in your life.