Supported Independent Living That Feels Like Home: Dora’s Story
At Care With Dignity, we believe supported independent living (SIL) is about more than just a house. It’s about creating a home where participants feel safe, heard, and empowered to live life on their own terms. Dora’s journey is a perfect example of how the right support transforms lives.
Dora’s Journey to Independence
Hi, I’m Dora. I was born in Australia to Greek parents. After losing my mum and with my dad getting older, I needed a place where I could truly be myself.
I had moved in and out of a few different SIL and SRS homes, but often felt like I wasn’t being heard. I even lived with my dad for a while, but as he got older, it became difficult to continue living at home. I wanted a space where I could have my own privacy, feel comfortable, and be part of a community.
In October last year, everything changed when I met Karen from Care With Dignity. I found her through a previous participant she had supported, and from the first phone call, I knew this could be the right place for me.
A Home That Feels Like Family
Dora’s SIL home is far from ordinary. She enjoys good company, her own private space, and the companionship of her anxiety cat, Harriet, who she and Karen lovingly adopted together.
“It’s not like a normal SIL house. You’ve got pets, good company, and your own privacy. I feel like I can do whatever I want.”
The team at Care With Dignity is more than just support workers, they are like family. Karen acts as both a mother figure and a big sister to Dora, while the other staff feel like sisters. This strong, caring team allows Dora to thrive in her home environment.
Karen and Dora smiling together in their SIL home, enjoying each other’s company and the supportive environment at Care With Dignity.
What Makes Supported Independent Living So Impactful
Dora’s story highlights the key benefits of individualised supported independent living:
Freedom to live independently while receiving tailored support
A safe and welcoming environment where participants feel valued
Support that prioritises relationships, companionship, and personal choice
Opportunities for community engagement and meaningful daily routines
For support coordinators and behaviour support practitioners, Dora’s experience demonstrates the importance of matching participants with SIL homes that meet their unique needs. When the right support and environment come together, participants gain confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging.
Karen, Paris, and Dora making coffee together in the SIL kitchen, enjoying a shared activity in a warm and supportive environment.
More Than Just a Place to Live
Dora now feels truly at home and even recommends Care With Dignity to others in her life, including her brother, who is also an NDIS participant.
“Karen and the team are like family. I feel like this is my home now.”
Her story is a testament to how supported independent living can give participants a sense of freedom, security, and community. It’s a model that allows participants to thrive while maintaining independence and personal choice.
Why Care With Dignity
At Care With Dignity, we specialise in creating supported independent living environments that are:
Person-centred: We tailor support to each participant’s needs and preferences.
Trauma-informed: We prioritise emotional safety and wellbeing.
Community-focused: We encourage relationships, inclusion, and participation.
Flexible: We adapt to each participant’s lifestyle, hobbies, and routines.
Paris and Dora sharing a fist bump in the SIL kitchen, highlighting their positive connection and supportive relationship at Care With Dignity.
Get in Touch
If you’re a participant, family member, or a support coordinator or behaviour support practitioner looking for SIL options that prioritise independence, personalised care, and a true sense of home, contact Care With Dignity today to learn more.
