“I have found another home here” – Paul’s story

Since the opening of selectability’s Rockhampton hub earlier this year, recipient Paul has been a familiar face, attending three days a week and immersing himself in activities that bring him joy, connection, and a renewed sense of self.

From cooking and arts and crafts to local excursions and visits to the Men’s Shed, Paul has embraced every opportunity to engage with others and express his creativity.

As a devoted grandfather and an artist, he finds great purpose in crafting thoughtful gifts for his grandchildren and exploring new creative outlets.

“I have been coming to selectability for a few months now,” said Paul.

“My support worker picks me up in the morning, they take me to do things like art and cooking classes.”

Paul’s story is a powerful reflection of what person-centred support can offer confidence, creativity, and connection.

“I feel lucky. I am an artist, you know? And I do things like pottery. I find it very reassuring to explore my talents more when I am here.

“Now I am going out to the Men’s Shed or to Emu Park and doing things like woodwork. I have all these creative outlets that I didn’t know I could have.”

Through his participation, Paul says he’s noticed a significant improvement in his mental health and overall wellbeing.

Most importantly, he feels like he’s found a place where he belongs.

“When you are like me, and you have felt the harshness of the outside world, you look for places… and it has taken me a long time to find a place where you can feel safe and comfortable,” he said.

“Now I am at selectability, I feel like I have found another home, And It is important to have a place to come back to.”

“The main thing I like about selectability is the people,” he said.

“You feel like you are getting somewhere in life when you are here. sometimes they are little positive things that happen, but they really matter to me.”

At selectability, supports are tailored to each person’s unique needs and interests, empowering individuals to build independence, grow confidence, and find their place in the community.

Paul’s story is no different.

“A lot of people get up and go to work for their day, but my life has been quite different I guess,”

“I have grown up with a lot of tough things in my life.

“But when you meet people like the people here at selectability, it really gives you the strength to face things in life and not be frightened of who you are.”

Paul now hopes to share his story further perhaps even write a book so that others who are searching can find the same sense of belonging and support.

“I talk to my friends about it, I tell them how they help the NDIS to benefit us, that we are looked after and how it has made such a positive change in me.”

An artist and a divine appreciation of positivity and compassion, Paul represents a larger part of selectability’s vision to empower recipients to reach their goals, on their terms.

An empowerment and determination that can only be described by Paul himself.

“The world is full of billions of people, everyone has something to contribute… no matter how little you feel, your voice can still be heard.”