NEW DOOR OPENS FOR THOSE WITH A DISABILITY
SIX Tasmanians will take on the challenge of living by themselves as part of a housing project to foster independence among people with disabilities.
The government-funded project is run by the Supported Affordable Accommodation Trust and Possability, which builds supported living homes across Tasmania.
A new house opened in Berriedale on Monday to the delight of 28-yearold Bradleigh Townsend, who has an intellectual disability.
Mr Townsend lives with his parents, and is excited at the prospect of living by himself and learning some real life skills.
“This’ll be good. Having my own room, my own space, I’ll be more independent,” Mr Townsend said.
“I’ll get to cook my own meals. I’ll
learn how to cook, how to wash. I already know how to vacuum floors. I’ll be able to do some gardening.”
He will be moving in with five other housemates who will work together to make sure the house is in proper working order, with the occasional help from a support worker.
One of them is 18-year-old Andrea Ridgeway, who is “scared but excited” at the prospect of living independently.
Ms Ridgeway said she planned to spend her free time making TikTok videos, cooking and busking around the neighbourhood.
“It’ll give me a chance to be more independent and meet new people, make new friends,” she said.
Her new housemate Bradley Graham, 23, is looking forward to sharing his cooking with his new group of friends.