A new Special Intensive Support Unit (SISU) in East Devonport which will provide a home for two NDIS participants with high needs and their support staff is nearing completion, the Tasmanian Government has announced.
“The $1.3 million development was funded by Homes Tasmania specifically as supported accommodation for people experiencing mental illness and disability,” Minister Guy Barnett said.
“The Tasmanian Government is committed to working with people with disability, the people who support and advocate for them and the wider community, to build a more equitable, inclusive and accessible state for all Tasmanians.
“After extensive consultation with those living with disabilities, the architect’s end design for the SISU is fit for purpose with NDIS tenants needs in mind,” he said.
The new unit (pictured above) has functional areas to allow a sense of independent supported living with the two one-bedroom wings containing all associated facilities such as:
- open-plan dining, living and kitchen;
- separate (secure) cooking zone with glazed (polycarbonate) door;
- accessible bathroom design;
- support staff area with a bathroom, two sleepover spaces and an office;
- designed to allow support staff to view the tenant’s living areas from the office and sleepover areas;
- secure, private open space for each tenant, and
- landscaping for tenants to enjoy outdoor space.
The layout of the SISU is that of a two-bedroom group style home that provides separation of the two living quarters via a common overview area that will house support staff.
It is the second of four SISU projects being delivered through Homes Tasmania and construction is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.
