Care that goes above and beyond the basics forms the philosophy behind Canberra’s 24/7 respite accommodation centre Renaissance House. Photo: Hartley Life Care.
The best barometer of the success of Renaissance House is the smiles on the faces of its “guests”, says Hartley Lifecare CEO Eric Thauvette.
He says with the focus more on a resort-style experience than respite, the Canberra facility offering short-term accommodation for people living with a disability is renowned for its welcoming, fun and inclusive environment.
And that’s exactly why those who come and stay are referred to as guests.
“Staff are committed to ensuring everyone gets an individual experience with a range of social activities and outings available to enjoy the best of Canberra,” he says.
“We love hearing feedback from family members who tell us every time their child or sibling comes to visit, it’s hard for them to come home – and they want to stay longer.”
This hotel-style atmosphere is scaffolded by superbly appointed facilities designed to meet high support needs including commodes, ceiling hoists and 24/7 care by experienced staff.
It’s a staycation for those who visit and a lifeline for carers.
And despite this success – and guest satisfaction – beds are lying empty.
That’s not because they aren’t needed, but because of shortfalls in NDIS funding, according to Eric.
“We are not seeing the utilisation,” he says. “We don’t believe that’s because of more competition or respite options, we believe it’s due to a reduction in the number of days of respite available to individuals – and we are hearing this right across Australia.”
For carers – often parents, siblings or partners – the availability of short-term accommodation options such as Renaissance House can make the difference between coping and burning out, Eric says.
Empty rooms represent lost chances for carers to rest, recover, and continue providing support at home. They also mean lost chances for people with disability to experience enriching opportunities for social connection, recreational activities, and life-skills development – care beyond the basics.
“There have been a lot of funding cuts at NDIS,” Eric says.
Canberra’s Renaissance House offers resort-style accommodation with state-of-the-art equipment and services to support people with a disability. Photo: Supplied.
“There’s been a reduction in people’s plans, which impacts their ability to access respite. The result is the burden falls back on to already stretched carers and families.
“With short-term accommodation options, the goal is to keep the home structure going and if families are able to get a break, that can extend the time the person is able to stay at home.
“If there are cuts to the number of days a person can access respite, research shows people end up in permanent care earlier.”
Hartley Lifecare already undertakes significant fundraising to help bridge some of the gaps NDIS can’t or won’t fill, according to Eric.
This includes transportation with modified vehicles to safely meet high or complex needs – where it’s not appropriate or possible to use taxis or public transport.
“If they didn’t have access to these vehicles, some people would be completely isolated,” Eric says.
Improving and enhancing access to the community lies at the heart of Hartley Lifecare’s vision.
That includes for those not born with a disability but may have acquired it through an accident, illness or other life-changing event.
“We’ve got someone who comes from Queensland (with an acquired disability) to visit family and stays here for a few days because we’ve got all the equipment and facilities to accommodate them,” he says.
“Sometimes hotels are unable to accommodate a person with a disability because of the level of support they need.
“With the option of Renaissance House, a family can still all go away together and the person with the disability stays with us here overnight but can head off on outings with their family during the day.”
Eric says staff can handle the often heavy workload involved with morning and night routines.
“It’s really nice to see that work well when it happens.
“For families who rarely get the chance to holiday together, such opportunities are transformative and life affirming for everyone.”
Visit Renaissance House.
