Every Saturday, James sets out on a mission that’s become a cornerstone of his independence, the weekly supermarket shop. With gentle support from his team, this simple routine has grown into something much more: a joyful celebration of choice, confidence and community connection.
With the encouragement of Vivian, his Disability Support Worker, what began as a practical skill-building activity has become a weekly ritual filled with pride and purpose.
“When I arrive, James is already listening to music and smiling,” Vivian shares. “He’ll say ‘shopping’, and he’s excited and ready to go.”
Before heading out, James updates his weekly meal planner using his recipe book that ‘Nanna Joyce’ lovingly created for him. Filled with pictures and favourite meals, it helps James choose what he wants to eat for the week ahead. He’s got a soft spot for pasta, but with gentle encouragement from Vivian, he’s also learning to explore other healthy options.
Together they build a shopping list using pictures and symbols, then decide which supermarket to visit. “He loves having the choice,” Vivian says. “Sometimes it’s Woolies, sometimes Coles, sometimes Aldi. He’ll grab his wallet, the shopping bags, the list and we’re off.”
Once inside, James leads the way. He pushes the trolley, finds his items, and proudly pays for everything himself, celebrating each successful purchase with a big smile.
At home, James unpacks everything with care. Milk in the fridge, frozen food in the freezer, pantry items in the pantry, nothing out of place. “He never misses,” Vivian says. “That’s my proudest moment. Seeing him know exactly what to do, start to finish.”
For James, shopping is more than a chore. It’s a chance to connect. He greets cashiers and fellow shoppers, chats with people in the queue, and lights up when he spots a friendly face or a dog to pat. “It’s not just shopping,” Vivian says. “It’s fun. It’s his time to be out in the community, doing what he loves.”
Behind this success is a collaborative team, his dedicated group of Disability Support Workers, Client Services Officer, Positive Behaviour Specialist, Support Coordinator, Occupational Therapist and family, who have each played a role in helping James reach this milestone.
“The whole team of Disability Support Workers who support James every day do an amazing job,” Vivian adds. “They encourage his choices and independence in everything he does. What we achieve together on Saturdays is really an extension of that daily teamwork.”
“James has become a lot more independent, which is fantastic because that’s the whole goal,” says Ilsa, his Client Services Officer. “Every day he’s learning new things, growing, and making his own choices. It’s really empowering to see.”
Cezz, a Positive Behaviour Specialist who works closely with James and his team, explains that the program was built to help him develop everyday skills that strengthen independence. “We designed it step by step, focusing on what James can do himself,” Cezz says. “It’s about giving him the chance to show his independence before stepping in. That confidence is what helps him thrive.”
Tara, James’ mum, says the growth she’s seen means everything.
“These are goals I’ve always had for James,” she shares. “It means a lot to have trained staff who teach and support him. I’m so grateful for the independence skills he’s developing and the opportunities he’s given to learn.”
James’ story is a reminder that independence doesn’t come from doing things alone; it comes from being supported in the right way. With encouragement, trust and teamwork, James continues to live life on his terms, one shopping trip at a time.
Click Here to read more about independence, inclusion and life at eQuality Support. Link to Supported Independent Living (SIL) in Geelong and Ballarat
