Niche Accessible Homes LimitedRegistered

Niche Accessible Homes Limited has one project entitled Provision of Specialist Disability Accommodation. In the past, people with disabilities have been grouped together in large or medium size (eg 5 person) Group Homes. The allocation of people into these groups has been done at the convenience of the Organisations offering this accommodation, with little respect for the needs of the individuals residing there. People are often uprooted from their home town or family, and are grouped with people that they have nothing in common with other than a diagnosis of disability. Many are frightened of other residents and feel fearful of harm and abuse. They are unable to enjoy the peace and security of their home , and the rest of their lives can be negatively impacted by this lack of stability. Even with the advent of the NDIS, living arrangements like this continue to be the norm for most people with a disability. Niche Accessible Homes Limited provides unique accommodation arrangements for this highly vulnerable section of our population. The needs of each person are taken into account, and homes are constructed or leased reflecting the needs of each individual. The pilot project has provided accommodation for two NDIS participants who have known each other from childhood. The home is in a regular street, in a regular neighbourhood, but has been constructed to allow for mobility needs and other health requirements such as a hydrotherapy spa. The home meets the requirements of the NDIS legislation for the High Physical Support category of Specialist Disability Accommodation. It is located in the town where these people grew up so that close ties to family and friends are maintained. Currently, the project operates in Armidale, New South Wales with the option to expand to other locations. Each person has a different organisation to provide them with support for activities during the day, as both have very different interests and needs. They live their lives largely independent of each other during the day, but enjoy time together at home in the evening. This safe, secure, supportive home base means that these young people are best supported to live active, meaningful and contributing lives, fully embedded in their local community, thus reducing the risk of harm and abuse to this highly vulnerable section of our population.