The right place for Keith to call home.
Keith has complex health and severe mental health issues which have progressively worsened over the years. Keith had lived with his family in Shoalhaven, NSW his entire life. He requires 24/7 support and cannot be left on his own. His elderly parents reached a point where they could no longer cope with Keith’s declining health, behaviour, and increasing need for care.
As there’s a shortage of services in the region, Jennifer* eventually sought help from Illawarra Mental Health. Keith was taken to Shellharbour, for assessment.
Keith now lives in Supported Independent Living in one of Bradannii’s houses in the Illawarra.
You know good people. You can tell they truly care.
Our Guardian Angels are the Bradannii team. Knowing that Keith is with Bradannii is a relief. Julie and her team went above and beyond to make sure everything was set up for Keith, and that I had the opportunity to have a look at where Keith would live. It’s a beautiful home, a lovely house in a nice area. He has his own room, there’s a family room and back yard.
We had to wait until Bradannii had a place for Keith, and we’re glad we did wait. It’s the right place for him and it’s a good fit. Keith lives with his friend, Jacob. They are good mates and get along so well.
Life is so much better for Keith. His healthcare is monitored and managed, he’s more sociable, has special people in his life and he likes the people who work with him. He has a better social life than I have! He is learning how to live in a house with others, goes out walking and fishing, and I know for sure he’s happy. He now says, “Bye mum, I’m going home.”
Having Bradannii managing Keith’s care is peace of mind for me. He has a special bond and an honest connection with his care team, with who he is comfortable. He knows they truly care.
Many other families in our situation in the Shoalhaven struggle to cope or understand what supports and mental health services in the Shoalhaven. I’d encourage others to reach out to Bradannii for guidance advice.
*names changed for privacy
