Simply Helping Francesca to Believe in Herself

Independence can mean having more confidence in everyday life, making your own choices and feeling connected to the people and places that matter to you. Francesca’s journey towards having more independence, later supported by Simply Helping Central and Northern Melbourne, began during one of the most difficult periods of her life.

For many years, Francesca’s world was centred around her family, her community in Brunswick, and her beloved mother. Francesca has an intellectual disability and had lived with her mum all her life, who was her primary support. When Francesca’s mother’s health declined and she moved into residential aged care, Francesca moved with her, committed to being by her side.

The loss of her mother marked a significant turning point.

Suddenly, Francesca was faced with a future she had never imagined: navigating life on her own. The confidence to live independently wasn’t there, and the thought of building a life without her mother’s daily presence felt overwhelming.

Like many people beginning their NDIS journey, Francesca wasn’t sure what support could mean for her future. Fortunately, she didn’t have to face that journey alone.

Throughout every challenge, Francesca’s family remained closely involved in her life. They continued to advocate for Francesca and encourage her, including during times when she struggled to see her own potential.

When Francesca connected with Simply Helping Central and Northern Melbourne, she was matched with support workers based on her preferences, dedicated to supporting Francesca to build life skills and make more choices for herself at a pace that she has controlled.

Francesca slowly began expanding her world. As she built trusted relationships with her Simply Helping Support Workers, she became more open to new experiences and worked towards her NDIS goals. Achieving those goals encouraged her self-confidence.

With her Simply Helping support workers, Francesca joined a weekly walking group, attended sewing activities, explored her creative interests, and reconnected with the joy of spending time with others, which included coffee at the local café, a game of cards and, most importantly for Francesca, croquet, music and dancing.

Each support worker brought different strengths to Francesca’s support. Some encouraged her creativity, while others supported her to take a more active role in daily activities and build greater independence.

These moments have become the foundation upon which Francesca has begun rebuilding her self-confidence, which has culminated in Francesca moving to supported independent living (SIL).

Francesca now has routines and choices that are her own, and continues to grow in confidence in her new home.

Francesca has come a long way in recognising her abilities. Now living in supported independent living, she is continuing to discover what greater independence looks like for her.

Click here to learn more about Simply Helping Central and Northern Melbourne and how our support can assist you.