Lazlo and Philomena
Content Warning: These stories are about violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation and may include references to suicide or self-harming behaviours. They may contain graphic descriptions and strong language and may be distressing. Some narratives may be about First Nations people who have passed away. If you need support, please see Contact & support.
Lazlo, early 30s, has intellectual disability.
He works at a disability employment enterprise.
His mum, Philomena, is aging.
She told the Royal Commission she is worried about what will happen to Lazlo when she can no longer care for him.
A few years ago, Philomena started looking at disability accommodation options close to Lazlo’s work.
There was limited choice and the houses were disappointing. Most didn’t feel like a home and provided limited opportunities for residents to participate in the community.
‘The places I did look through didn’t offer an environment where I felt he would be happy living out his years.’
By chance, Philomena heard about a house, recently completed, providing 24/7 care. A group of parents had lobbied governments and councils and raised the funds to make it happen.
For ‘a modest outlay’, Lazlo was able to secure a place.
He lives with a group of young men and women of similar ages he calls his other family.
‘The first thing you notice is the warm, family environment and the genuine care and concern the residents have for one another.’
There are multiple living areas, a large gym, outdoor gazebo, vegetable gardens and hens.
Lazlo can join in activities or spend time alone. He is able to walk by himself around the grounds.
‘[Lazlo] has grown since being in the house, displaying more independence and an improvement in general life skills,’ Philomena said.
He prepares simple meals and takes more responsibility for his own care.
He takes his turn to help with the chores such as drying dishes, unstacking the dishwasher, taking rubbish out and feeding the hens.
Lazlo spends more time in the community than he did at home. He plays basketball, does trampolining, goes bowling and to the gym.
The residents visit farms, the beach, go on picnics and go to the football.
Parents are involved in different ways. They mow lawns, fundraise and maintain the house and property.
Philomena says the home is a ‘model of excellence in disability housing’ and should be replicated across Australia.
‘Those living with disability and waiting for housing [should] experience the same care and social connections [these] residents do.’
Philomena feels blessed she has seen Lazlo happily settle into his new home with his new friends.
Disclaimer: This is the story of a person who shared their personal experience with the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability through a submission or private session. The names in this story are pseudonyms. The person who shared this experience was not a witness and their account is not evidence. They did not take an oath or affirmation before providing the story. Nothing in this story constitutes a finding of the Royal Commission. Any views expressed are those of the person who shared their experience, not of the Royal Commission.