The future of Supported Independent Living (SIL) just took a giant leap forward, and it happened in the heart of Cremorne on Sydney's stunning lower North Shore. Â
On Thursday, 21st November 2024, United for Care welcomed guests to the grand opening of its latest innovation—the Cremorne Vertical Village. It was a day filled with celebration, community, and a shared vision of creating a better future for people living with disabilities.
Nestled in an area known for its cosmopolitan charm and proximity to natural beauty, this state-of-the-art property is just a ten-minute drive from Balmoral Beach. It’s the perfect blend of accessibility, modern living, and lifestyle freedom—a shining example of United for Care’s unique take on Supported Independent Living (SIL).
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Sunshine, Connection, and Community
The day began with an air of excitement. Guests arrived in the morning sunshine to a welcoming atmosphere, greeted by United for Care’s friendly team. Guided tours showcased the sleek apartments and inviting communal areas, giving guests a clear sense of what it might be like to live in this beautiful new property.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was a true highlight of the day. A United for Care resident, Matthew, had the honour of officially opening the new Vertical Village. With scissors in hand and a crowd cheering him on, the moment symbolised more than just an opening—it was a new beginning for everyone involved. Â
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Richard’s Perspective: A Place to Call Home Â
Richard, who has previously lived in two other United for Care properties, expressed his excitement: “This is where I want to be for the foreseeable future. I’ve always wanted to live in this area, and now I get to watch a new community grow from the ground up. It already feels like home.”
He praised the design of the apartments; “This doesn’t look or feel institutional. It’s modern, welcoming, and comfortable. That makes all the difference.”
Richard also shared how the on-site staff, led by Service Lead Ainslie, are an integral part of his journey; “Ainslie and the team are fantastic. They’re friendly, trustworthy, and collaborative. Having that support makes coordinating my therapies and managing my day so much easier. I get the help I need, but I never feel smothered. With United for Care, I get to keep my independence. That’s what the NDIS is all about.”
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What Makes Cremorne Vertical Village Unique?
United for Care’s Vertical Villages redefine SIL by focusing on choice, comfort, and independence. Here’s what sets Cremorne apart:
- Modern Living Spaces
These studio apartments feature cutting-edge designs tailored to accessibility while offering a stylish, contemporary aesthetic. Each apartment provides residents with a safe, private space to thrive.
- 24/7 Personalised Support
Highly trained support staff are on-site around the clock, ensuring that every resident’s unique needs are met without compromising their independence.
- Location, Location, Location
Cremorne’s charm lies in its blend of city vibrancy and natural beauty. From boutique cafes to scenic walks at Balmoral Beach, it offers an unmatched lifestyle for residents.
- Building Community
The Vertical Village model isn’t just about housing—it’s about creating connections. Residents are encouraged to build meaningful relationships with each other and their support staff, creating a strong, inclusive community.
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A Personal Touch from Ainslie, Service Lead
For Ainslie, the opening of Cremorne is more than just a job milestone—it’s a personal journey. With years of experience supporting homeless people living with complex mental health needs, she’s excited about the opportunities the Vertical Village brings:
“This is such an exciting time. It’s my first role with United for Care. Everything is new—me, the participants, and the community we’re creating together. We all get the chance to grow side-by-side.”
She added: “The participants we have at this property are a dream come true. Every day I get to come here and connect with them in a very natural way. Honestly, it doesn’t feel like work. It’s a privilege.”
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Making Lifestyle Freedom Accessible to All
Cremorne Vertical Village is just one step in United for Care’s larger mission to make lifestyle freedom accessible to all. As an organisation, United for Care is committed to providing more than just accommodation—it’s about creating homes where people can feel secure, connected, and truly themselves.
Whether you’re a participant, family member, or support coordinator, this Vertical Village is a testament to what’s possible when innovative design meets a heartfelt intention to create life-changing homes.
Couldn’t make it to the open day? Don’t worry—there’s still an opportunity to experience Cremorne’s incredible Vertical Village firsthand. Reach out to a member of our team today to book a personalised tour and discover the new standard in Supported Independent Living.
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