Spotlight on Supported Independent Living at Gateways
Rod, our Accommodation Program Manager, recently joined BayFM’s Bay Spotlight to help raise awareness about Gateways’ Supported Independent Living services and the positive impact they have on people with disabilities.
At Gateways Support Services, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live as independently as possible and feel truly at home. That’s what Supported Independent Living (SIL) is all about.
SIL is a type of support that helps people with a disability live in their own homes while receiving the day-to-day support they need. This might include support with personal care, daily routines, household tasks, or getting involved in the community.
But it’s more than just practical help, it’s about creating the right environment for each person to thrive, learn, and grow.
What Supported Independent Living Looks Like at Gateways
At Gateways, we know that “home” means different things to different people. That’s why we take the time to get to know each person and understand what matters most to them, whether it’s having quiet time, staying active, or being part of a busy household.
Each of our homes has an on-site team leader who works closely with residents and support workers. This ensures that support is consistent, responsive, and tailored to each individual’s needs and goals.
Importantly, our support grows with the person. As residents gain confidence or want to try something new, we’re right there with them — whether that’s learning to cook, starting a new hobby, or developing skills for independent living.
Rod’s Story
For Rod, his work is deeply personal. His sisters have received Supported Independent Living support through Gateways. He has seen how the right environment and the right support can help people not only live independently, but also build self-esteem, reach their goals, and feel truly at home.
He has been working at Gateways for 16 years now, but his connection to the organisation goes back over 25 years, as a family member. When Rod was ready for a new career path, he knew exactly where he wanted to be. Rod had complete confidence in Gateways because he had seen the care, respect, and person-centred approach firsthand.
Why Gateways is Different
Gateways has always believed in empowering people to make choices about their own lives. Even before “person-centred care” became a common term in the disability sector, it was already part of the way we worked.
It’s that commitment to people, listening to them, supporting their goals, and respecting their choices, that has set Gateways apart for over 40 years we have been supporting people with a disability.
Want to Learn More?
Supported Independent Living can be life changing, for individuals, families, and communities.
To view vacancies through our SDA providers or to find out more about how Gateways can support you or someone you care about, click HERE
Listen to the full interview below
Audio Player
