Rethinking Disability Housing

The familiar mantra of “build it and they will come” seems logical enough at first glance, particularly in industries where demand outstrips supply. However, when applied to the specialised housing needs of individuals with disabilities, this simplistic viewpoint misses the mark on several critical fronts. At Adenium Living, our approach is fundamentally different, shaped by a deep understanding that creating suitable housing involves much more than just construction.

The Challenge with Conventional SDA Housing

In the disability services industry, it’s often presumed that building a house according to the Supported Disability Accommodation (SDA) design standards will automatically resolve the housing issues faced by people with disabilities. This presumption is coupled with the belief that the right location will meet all participant needs and that various service providers will seamlessly work together to ensure a smooth transition for the participant into their new home.

However, this scenario raises several pertinent questions: How do SDA providers ensure that all necessary support providers are informed and involved in the transition? How can we be certain that the participant is fully supported and understands the process ahead? These are not just logistical questions but are central to the efficacy and success of disability housing solutions.

Adenium Living’s Intentional Approach

At Adenium Living, we recognise that constructing a building is merely one part of a much larger picture. Before the first foundation is laid, we embark on a comprehensive engagement process. We collaborate with people with disabilities, gaining insights directly from them to inform our design concepts. We consult with behaviour support practitioners, occupational therapists, and parents of children with disabilities, among others, to ensure our designs are not just compliant, but genuinely conducive to enhancing the lives of our tenants.

Our Intake and Transition Process

Understanding the complexity and interdependency of services, Adenium Living’s intake and transition process involves close coordination with all of a participant’s providers. This integration ensures that everyone involved—from caregivers to healthcare professionals—is on the same page regarding the participant’s needs and the steps required for a successful transition. This collaborative approach not only prepares the groundwork for new tenants but also constructs a support network that extends beyond the physical structure of the home.

The Real Impact of Prior Consultation

Our research has shown that without this level of prior consultation and engagement, SDA dwellings risk remaining vacant, leading to increased frustration among individuals with disabilities who desperately need safe and secure housing. Therefore, we do not simply build; we build with purpose, precision, and partnership.

Building homes for people with disabilities involves more than just adhering to design standards; it requires a deep commitment to understanding and meeting the holistic needs of these individuals. Adenium Living’s commitment is to ensure that each project we undertake is more than just a place to live—it’s a place where lives are enriched and supported in every possible way. Through this approach, we are not just constructing buildings but are helping to build better lives.