Bryan (left) and Nick (right) – housemates.
Nick is a young man who has always been actively involved in his community. He loves the theatre and has been involved in a number of performances. Nick has high care needs, but why should that stop him from living a young and independent life?
Unfortunately for so many young Australians like Nick, their care needs hinder their ability to live how they deserve – with choice, dignity and independence.
When Nick hit adulthood, he became frustrated. Most of us reach this age and naturally spread our wings and leave home, but Nick was faced with the same problem shared by so many young people with high care needs. There are simply no options.
Throughout the years Nick tried a few different places that just weren’t right for his age or care needs.
When Gill got the call about Nick moving into the Youngcare Share House at Wooloowin, she cried with relief. At 30 years old Nick would finally get the independence and dignity he deserved.
“From the point of view of a young person living with a disability, they only want what is the right of every young person – to live a normal meaningful life as independently as possible and to be with other young people of their own age.” Gill said
Now, three years on, Nick is living a fulfilled and very busy life at the Share House. He has made three life-long friends in his house mates and his carers are more like family to him! He is the resident party planner, always looking for an excuse to socialise and have visitors over. And he still loves the theatre; he’ll never miss his weekly acting classes!
