Operational works have been approved for a new community care centre in the Bundaberg CBD, providing respite and support under the NDIS.
Insite SJC submitted the documentation for client Care Needs Solutions last year for the development on 57 Woondooma Street, with the next stage of plans now forging ahead.
The development will convert an existing dwelling into a respite and drop-in centre that will include a community care residential component.
Josie Roberts-Smith from Care Needs Solutions said the organisation worked as a disability support provider accredited under NDIS, also providing support to self-managed people.
“We have been operating for just over 12 months in the region,” Josie said.
“We began working with our first participant in March 2019.”
Josie said the Woondooma Street area was the perfect spot for the new development, which would act as a main office, small group activities area and respite (short term accommodation) for up to two participants at a time.
“There is a need for smaller respite, so many people don't want to have to share a respite centre with multiple other people,” she said.
“Also our group activities are limited to no more than five people, this is beneficial for people who struggle with larger groups.”
Josie said the community care centre would assist clients with navigating the NDIS and also provide assisted training and life skilling, such as teaching cooking, cleaning, arts and crafts and more.
The development includes features such as eight car parking spaces, a disabled ramp access to the building, two bedrooms for respite care, an office, common area and dining room.
Five employees will work at the centre with five clients on-site at any given time and two clients staying the night as part of respite services.
Hours of operation will be from 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday and Saturday 8am till 12pm.
“We are aiming to keep the respite as a homely environment,” Josie said.
“All of our staff are educated and have experience working in the disability services field.”
Josie said the team at Care Needs Solutions liked to think outside the box and provided many opportunities for participants to live life to the fullest.
“We can take people four wheel driving, camping, fishing as well as help with many arts and crafts activities,” she said.
“We can also take our participants on trips away (when COVID restrictions allow) and some staff can accompany participants on family holiday.
“Our staff can also provide help with personal care, home care, house work/meal preparation, community engagements, attending appointments and classes.”
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