OUR PROJECT

We are seeking to establish a model of supported housing for our adult children and others in similar need.

We are looking for financial assistance to fund the pre-implementation stages of a project to provide supported accommodation that best meets the needs of consumers and carers.

Such accommodation would be based on a model that stabilises, personalises and links housing to services.

This model would add resources to an already stretched supply of accommodation in Tasmania (Australia) that is suitable for people with a mental illness.

Project Outline

Modelled on the Haven Foundation in Chapel Street South Yarra.

Target population

This project is designed to assist 14 residents aged between 20 and 60. The residents have been assessed as having the potential to lead a contributing life and potential for independence.

14 one-bedroom, self-contained units, each with its own cooking and laundry facilities, which will provide independent, long-term accommodation for people with a serious persistent mental illness.

The building will be deliberately designed to allow for a degree of community interaction and social inclusion. The facility would include several indoor and outdoor communal spaces.

Suitable locations

Hobart, North Hobart, West Hobart, South Hobart, Sandy Bay, Battery Point, New Town (in Tasmania, Australia). These locations make family support practical, are close to services such as the Royal Hobart Hospital, psychiatric consulting rooms, shops, doctors, buses. Location needs to be sensitive to social and family background.

How can you help?

Carers and volunteers will be welcome to interact with tenants, providing social and community support. Service providers, tenants, family members, volunteers, carers will have a joint undertaking to support interdependent living.

Selection Criteria

Selection criteria for residing at the units would include:

• clinical assessment of serious, persistent mental illness.
• medical compliance (residents may not be on drugs or act in some kind of uncontrolled manner. They will, however, be at the more severe end of the mental illness spectrum).
• they must be at financial disadvantage as indicated by their eligibility for disability support pension.
• they must be eligible for the NDIS.
• and for most of them there must be family and carer support.