Seton Villa has officially opened its two newest purpose-built homes for women with intellectual disabilities – part of its $11 million investment to develop specialist disability accommodation.
Seton Villa, founded by the Daughters of Charity of St Vincent de Paul, has long been a trailblazer in providing housing and supported independent living to people with disabilities. The first two homes were opened in early 2021 and the newest architect-designed homes – Lavender Cottage and Leia’s Place – within the Ryde (New South Wales) local government area, are the third and fourth residences, with three more homes to be constructed this year and next.
For Peter Gardiner, Seton Villa chief executive, “the smiles say it all”.
“The joy of our residents in their new homes really vindicates what we’re aiming to achieve. The homes reinforce our commitment to providing residents with greater quality of life, independence, choice and control,” Mr Gardiner said.
“Seton Villa has been providing housing and supported independent living for 56 years. Although cultural and societal norms have changed, the key principles of Vincent de Paul and Louise de Marillac (founders of the Daughters of Charity) underpin Seton Villa. This isn’t just about bricks and mortar, it’s also about helping enhance our residents’ confidence and independence. The homes are also the springboard to further strategic growth to support others in our community.”
These houses have been specifically designed with a four-bedroom home (Lavender Cottage), and a five-bedroom home (Leia’s Place) that incorporates a semi-independent, two-bedroom apartment. Each home is fitted out to suit the specific needs of its residents, including specialist equipment such as electric hoists in the fully accessible bathrooms.
Valerie Adams, mother of Vanessa, one of the Lavender Cottage residents, says: “it’s a house you’d be pleased to call home”.
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New purpose built homes enhancing the lives of women with intellectual disabilities (Seton Villa)
