Sunnyfield Disability Services has finally moved to the better-suited former GS Kidd School site, paving the way for increased services and programs for clients.
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The not-for-profit organisation began operating at the new site on Stock Road on January 4, and is already making a major difference in what the service can offer.
“We’re just so delighted because we’ve had such a strong commitment to the community and the community too has been wonderful in return,” Sunnyfield Disability Services chief executive officer Caroline Cuddihy said.
“We will be able to carry on the legacy of the people who gave so much to GS Kidd and continue to use that site primarily for adults. Many of our clients would have been to that school too.”
The move follows a turbulent 18 months for the service where a decision by the Department of Education to auction the site sparked anger and disappointment from parents and carers.
That decision was eventually overturned however, and Sunnyside Disability Services agreed to lease the site for 12 months while negotiations to buy the site continue.
Ms Cuddihy said just to be able to rent the site was a huge step forward, and the sale negotiations may be finalised by mid-year.
“We are into some good negotiations. We’re not across the line but I am positively encouraged.”
The GS Kidd site will make a world of difference to clients who access services in the local area, and already has the many facilities in place for people with a disability.
It will now allow the organisation to take on more clients as well as staff.
“We hope to be able to offer a lot more services to a lot more people in the region who have a disability,” Ms Cuddihy said.
“Our previous facilities weren’t very nice and I think with these facilities here, we can really reach out into local communities and listen to what people are seeking.
“It is a really good size to support people.”
There are currently 12 clients who access Gunnedah Sunnyfield Disability Services, which provides such services as social and arts programs along with skills development.
Sharon Howett, whose 26-year-old son Brad takes part in the programs, said he had settled in comfortably and was enjoying the new surroundings.
“He started back this week and he is just a totally different child. He’s a happier child,” Ms Howett said.
She added that the move to the new premises was like a “weight lifted” off the shoulders of parents, carers and families as it’s a much “bigger and safer” area.
“They’re back to a regular place, with nice green grass and shaded areas to sit,” she said.
“There’s just so much promise because it’s big enough that we can cater for a lot more people who need it.”
Sunnyfield’s move to the former school site will also tie in with the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme to be rolled out in parts of NSW this year.
The scheme is the new way of providing individualised support for people with disability, their families and carers and will be rolled out in parts of NSW this year.