Montrose House, a new respite home for young people aged 5-20 years and living with disability, will provide more options for families and carers in Adelaide’s southern suburbs.

The state government provides $17 million annually to AnglicareSA through the National Disability Agreement, including $143,000 toward respite services at Montrose House, which currently has 44 customers. The move to the new building allows AnglicareSA to expand its programs and services to include school holiday and after school programs, and extend its overnight respite services to five days per week. In addition it will assist children and young people to develop life skills, make new friends and transition to independent living, all within a supportive environment.

The five-bedroom home, built through Renewal SA’s 1000 Homes in 1000 Days initiative, also consists of a carers room with ensuite, two separate living areas, a study, separate kitchen and dining area, utility room and two bathrooms.

“The new home has accessible bedrooms and bathrooms, a brand new kitchen for meal preparation, wide hallways for wheelchairs, large play spaces and a vegetable garden. It’s designed to feel like a home away from home,” says AnglicareSA CEO, Peter Sandeman.

Convenience and accessibility were important factors in deciding where the new respite facility would be built. “Montrose House is also ideally located near services and amenities such as public transport, schools, medical facilities and the Westfield Marion shopping centre,” noted Minister for Disability, Leesa Vlahos, who officially opened the house.