Supported Independent Living (SIL) is about more than having a place to live. It is about creating a life that feels more holistic and independent.
Mosaic’s SIL services are designed to support people with disability to grow, connect and thrive over the long term. A recent garden project at Mosaic’s newest SIL home in Redcliffe shows how routine, practical activities can make a big difference.
Community support in action
Last year, Mosaic was pleased to receive a generous donation of two garden beds from Bunnings, made possible through their Trade Skills for Teens program. Education support students from Perth-based Lakeland Senior High School built the garden beds as part of their learning. Through the project, the students gained hands‑on skills, worked as a team, and experienced the joy of giving back to the community.
Bunnings held a special presentation at its Jandakot facility for the students on completing their program, where they received certificates to recognise their participation. Mosaic’s CEO Rob Wilton and COO Kim Adamson attended the event to accept the garden beds on behalf of the organisation and to thank everyone involved. In addition to the garden beds, Bunnings also offered gift cards to purchase soil and plants for the new home.
Fostering home and client connections
For Mosaic’s SIL residents, the garden beds offered an opportunity to participate in setting up something new for the house and connect with other residents.
When the garden beds were installed at Derbarl House in Redcliffe, residents Karl and Phil worked alongside Mosaic’s support staff to set them up. One garden bed is already growing well, with the second in progress.
Karl shared that the garden has helped the house feel more like home. Being involved in caring for the garden gave him a sense of pride and ownership.
Phil, who lives in another Mosaic SIL home, joined the project to share his love of gardening. This helped build connections between residents from different homes and highlighted each person’s unique strengths.
CEO Rob Wilton said, “Supported Independent Living goes beyond just providing a place to live. It’s about helping people build a life. And projects like this show how everyday experiences can build skills, confidence and independence over time.”
The impact of Mosaic’s SIL services
These opportunities are at the heart of Supported Independent Living. Through SIL, Mosaic supports people with disability to develop life skills, take part in everyday activities, and make choices about how they live. Whether it is gardening, cooking, budgeting or socialising, these skills support greater independence over time.
Mosaic’s role is to create safe, supportive environments where residents are encouraged to try new things, build connections and work towards their goals. By partnering with schools, local businesses and community groups, Mosaic helps open doors to new experiences and stronger community inclusion.
This garden project is a clear example of inclusion in action. It brought together young people, community partners and SIL residents in a shared experience that benefits everyone involved. Most importantly, it shows how Supported Independent Living can help people with disability live fuller and more independent lives.
To learn more about Supported Independent Living with Mosaic Community Care, call 08 9314 8900 or connect with our team.