Ben’s journey with Unisson began many years ago, back when the organisation was known as Sunshine. Over the years, Ben transitioned from being a student at Sunshine to moving into supported independent living, with the support of his family. This journey, like many, came with its share of challenges. However, the last two years were particularly difficult. Changes in his routine and day program left him feeling unsettled and unhappy. Ben struggled to find the right support, and it seemed like he was slipping further away from the life he deserved.
Ben struggled to find the right support, and it seemed Enter Sharon, Unisson’s Support Coordinator and one of Ben’s most dedicated advocates. Sharon was determined to find the right environment for Ben, someone who previously would have been deemed as having “complex” needs. She linked with Amy, Team Leader at Beaumont Hills, Community Access Service, and that partnership became a turning point in Ben’s life. Together, they made a plan to help Ben find stability and happiness again.
For two years, Ben had been attending a day program that wasn’t the right fit for him. It wasn’t meeting his support needs, and he struggled to engage. But now, everything has changed. Beaumont Hills became the perfect environment for Ben, where he attends five days a week and even receives his much-loved music therapy. This shift is a powerful reminder that with the right mindset and steady belief in someone’s potential, even the most challenging situations can turn around.
What makes Ben’s story even more remarkable is the collaborative effort behind his success. His support team is made up of individuals from different parts of Unisson—Amy (Team Leader) from Beaumont Hills, Glen, Eric, and Isha (Direct Support Professionals), and Sharon (Support Coordinator). Together, they believed in Ben when and they worked tirelessly to ensure he had every chance to thrive.
Sharon played a key role in Ben’s NDIS plan review, ensuring he could transition from his previous provider to Beaumont Hills. She worked closely with Amy to set up everything Ben needed, from a personalised support routine to ensuring his beloved music therapy continued without disruption. This team’s focus on consistency, stability, and building trust has transformed Ben’s life.
At first, Ben’s days were filled with frustration and daily incidents. But now, he’s engaged and thriving. He helps around the centre, participates in cooking classes, and even jokes around with staff. When it’s time to go home, he pretends to fall asleep, showing just how much he enjoys his time at the centre. This is a huge transformation for Ben!
What’s even more encouraging is how Ben has embraced new opportunities. After just a few weeks at Beaumont Hills, he started participating in cooking classes, a sign of how comfortable and secure he feels in his new environment. Glen, Eric, and Isha worked together to create a daily schedule that gives Ben structure, predictability, and a sense of calm. Even on days when his primary carers aren’t on shift, the team ensures that his routine remains consistent, keeping him grounded.
The Beaumont Hills team didn’t stop at just providing basic support. They received specific training to understand Ben’s unique needs, equipping them with the skills to support him effectively. This approach has been crucial in helping Ben settle and thrive in a safe, supportive environment.
Looking ahead, the team is working with Ben on his public transport goals, empowering him to build more independence in his daily life. His journey is a powerful reminder that every person has potential, no matter how complex their needs may seem. When we invest in the right supports, with the right people and mindset, the possibilities for success are limitless.
At Unisson, we are incredibly proud to be part of Ben’s journey. Today, Ben isn’t just attending Beaumont Hills—he’s thriving. And that is the true measure of success.
A huge thank you to Amy, Sharon, Glen, Eric, Isha, and the entire Beaumont Hills team for believing in Ben and dedicating your time, care, and heart to his success. You’ve shown that with the right support, anything is possible.
