Living independently and kicking goals at Woods Cottage

When you first set foot into Woods Cottage – whoever you are – you are treated like an old friend. Part of CatholicCare’s Supported Independent Living Program, Woods Cottage provides individualised, in-home support to adults living with a disability. Alison, Susie, Jo, and Kay reside at Woods, and they couldn’t be prouder of their home.

Alex Jelodev, General Manager, CatholicCare Disability Futures says “in the past, people with disabilities were institutionalised and segregated. Now they can enjoy the parts of life that others get to.”

Alison has been living at Woods Cottage since 2011 and she enjoys a full and busy life. “I work at the Sydney Adventist Hospital two days a week, and I’m very social – I go on lots of outings.” During her time at Woods Cottage, Alison has thrived, largely thanks to the staff who have helped her build her independence.

CatholicCare’s approach to Supported Independent Living prioritises choice, control, and autonomous decision making for clients. Studies show how important it is for adults with an intellectual disability to have autonomy over their daily activities and decisions.

“Each resident at Woods Cottage is treated as an individual with unique talents, interests, and goals. Staff draw out these unique qualities and support the clients to live a rich, full, and meaningful life”, says Alex.

CatholicCare Disability Futures is excited to be expanding its work in this space.

Our support team provides the support and supervision of daily tasks to develop the skills of an individual, so they can