How Supported Independent Living creates safe, supportive homes for people with intellectual disability
A house should feel like home, comfortable, secure and yours.
Supported Independent Living, also known as SIL, gives people with intellectual disability the opportunity to live more independently, while still having the support they need to feel safe, confident and in control of their daily life.
For Colin, finding the right home changed everything.
Before moving into his Supported Independent Living home, Colin did not feel safe.
His previous living situation was not secure, and he experienced bullying. For Colin and his family, safety was the most important priority.
Sabina, one of Colin’s support workers, remembers that time clearly.
“He did not feel secure where he was. What his parents were looking for was a safe environment, somewhere he could feel comfortable and be himself.”
That search led them to Endeavour Foundation.
Moving into a new home can be a big step. For Colin, it meant bringing his own belongings, setting up his space and starting fresh.
“I brought all my stuff here, my bed, my TV,” Colin said.
At first, he was quiet and unsure. But over time, something changed.
“Yeah, it feels like home,” he says now.
Independence looks different for everyone.
For Colin, independence means having choice, routine and the freedom to enjoy everyday life.
He now takes part in daily activities that help him feel confident and capable. One of his favourite things to do is cook.
“I will cook for my housemates,” Colin says.
He enjoys preparing meals like sausages, rissoles and chicken, building skills and sharing experiences with others in the home.
Sabina has seen a clear change.
“Then we started seeing the real Colin. He became more confident, more comfortable and more himself.”
This is what Supported Independent Living is designed to do, support people to build skills, grow in confidence and live independently, their way.
A safe home is more than just a place to live. It is a place where people feel supported, included and connected.
For Colin, his home feels like family.
He enjoys spending time with his housemates and support workers, choosing how he spends his day and being part of a friendly, welcoming environment.
“They take him wherever he wants to go,” Sabina says. “He does what he likes to do, and that is what he was looking for. And he got that.”
While Colin still sees his parents regularly, going out for meals or spending time together, he now chooses to return to his own home.
There was even a moment that stood out to Sabina.
“Sometimes his mum would come to take him home, and he would say no, I want to stay here.”
That choice speaks volumes.
It shows comfort, confidence and a true sense of belonging.
For parents, that kind of change brings reassurance. Knowing their son is safe, supported and happy gives them confidence that he is exactly where he needs to be.
Supported Independent Living is not just about housing. It is about creating safe, structured environments where people with intellectual disability can thrive.
At Endeavour Foundation, SIL homes are designed to support each person’s individual needs, goals and preferences.
Support can include help with daily tasks, transport to appointments or activities, and guidance to build independence over time.
Importantly, many SIL homes are located close to Learning and Lifestyle Hubs, where people can build skills and take part in social activities, and supported employment opportunities, where they can earn their own money in a supportive workplace.
This creates real pathways.
People can learn new skills, connect with others and work towards their goals, all while living in a home that feels safe and familiar.
For Colin, that means cooking meals, spending time with others and feeling confident in his own space.
For his family, it means peace of mind.
And for Sabina, it means seeing someone grow into themselves.
“I think Endeavour is the place,” she says. “There are so many opportunities and support available. It helps people live independently and feel secure.”
Because when the right support is in place, independence becomes possible.
And more importantly, it becomes sustainable.
Whether you want to live more independently, build life skills, find a job or connect with your community, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Our Supported Independent Living services help people with intellectual disability build confidence, develop skills and create a home that feels safe, comfortable and their own.
Explore Supported Independent Living or use our property finder to find a home near you.