SPD: Housing, Care-Giving and Rehabilitation

SPD: Independent Living Centre

In 2005 the Gauteng North Services to People with Disabilities (SPD) was approached by several people to establish an independent living centre for people with disabilities. The SPD, then APD, agreed to make land available on its premises where the first seven independent living units were constructed. Currently the Nonyane Independent Living Center (ILC) consists of eleven units. A Life Right Contract is signed by both SPD and the owner of the unit built.

The ILC is a unique concept whereby people with disabilities own their own flatlets, manage their own life, go about their own programmes and live by their own rules.

This project is a first for South Africa, as no other such a project  for people with disabilities has ever been done. The residents and their families, as partners of SPD, will observe, adjust and develop policies to promote this exclusive living style for people with disabilities.

SPD pioneered this independent housing model and are currently the only disability organisation having such housing facilities as part of their service package. It is with pride and gratitude towards the residents that this idea now is conceptualised and made successful.

The previous project manager departed at the end of the 2008 financial year. A replacement was successfully appointed from June 2009. Co-operation between the office and residents continued via telephone, sms and email messages.

The first chairperson of the project support group, Mr Charles Stewart retired in the course of the year. His qualified leadership was appreciated all round and would be missed. A hearty welcome to adv Q Pelser who took over the chair.

 As of November 2009 a project supervisor was also appointed with the main objective of care and involvement with residents and communication with parents and families. Besides supervision of care giving to residents, administering of medication, organizing of social activities, domestic services to units, maintenance of gardens and security were handled by her. This development has certainly added value to the lives of residents and also comforted parents.

Due to the economic recession, the board resolved not to commence with erecting of additional units. Some maintenance was done on the existing units with continuous up-keep of the surroundings to ensure pleasant living. The residents, initiated and steered by Carien Pelser, designed and established a new water wise garden at the entrance gate to Nonyane. This addition to the project surroundings certainly beautified the grounds.  A special thanks to Newlands Nursery for donating plants and pebbles for the project

 At the end of 2009 two of the lessees departed. They were part of the project family and contributed to it's success. Fortunately a new resident moved in ensuring that the project adheres to SPD’s transformation plan.

Residents of the project are represented on the governance board by one of their own. Other residents were also invited to address events during the “Disability Awareness” month. Special occasions such as Christmas, Valentine’s Day and birthdays were celebrated in a special way at Nonyane ILC.

 The two Dutch physiotherapy students placed at SPD to do their internship on a student exchange program, offered their services to residents in the comfort of their homes. Residents celebrated one student’s 21^st birthday with party to express their gratitude.

Due to ever-increasing costs, levies have had to be increased to afford appointment of the project manager and supervisor. The project is however, still not at a breakeven level compelling residents to consider some form of fundraising. An identified need appears to be a project vehicle for emergency errands and social outings. The eventual financial burden to residents should a vehicle become available should be considered.

 SPD endeavours to create an atmosphere where all residents live independently but also feel the support of their neighbours and the Nonyane supervisor. It remains an objective to increase communication and healthy relationships in the project.