The story of our unique disability services homes begins here in Newcastle.
It’s the story of two mothers who wanted to give parents and carers a well-deserved break.
Pamela Comerford and a fellow parent both had sons who experienced the trauma of an acquired brain injury (ABI) and needed ongoing supports. Through contact with others in the same situation, they saw the need for a place that gave carers and their loved ones a real break – an opportunity to rejuvenate.
Our original disability services respite home was established in 1996 as Hunter Brain Injury Respite Options (HunterBIRO). Through the tireless efforts of the committee, volunteers, and caring professionals, we soon established a reputation as a special place in the local community for guests and their carers.
Today, we have three registered NDIS provider homes catering for supported independent living (SIL) and respite disability services in Newcastle. Our team of over 60 professional disability support workers (DSWs) and support staff are dedicated to helping those in our care live their best possible lives.
Housing in your NDIS plan? We’re a registered National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provider of housing and community supports, helping families in Newcastle, the Hunter region and the Central Coast.
I Am Here – Giving voice to disability
I Am Here expresses the voice of everyone with a disability. So often, these are the forgotten, the overlooked, the invisible people in our society.
The name is both a powerful statement and a constant reminder that whether a disability comes about by accident or birth, behind that disability is a unique individual worthy of recognition and respect.
Our mission
What we do every day
We provide unique, personalised disability services that recognise everyone's individuality. We create experiences to enrich and inspire our residents and guests. We offer mutual respect and kindness in a professional, caring and understanding environment.
We hear you. We see you. We are here for you.
Our values
Kindness and respect
We believe that dignity, individuality, and mutual respect are the basis of any great relationship. This belief is at the heart of everything we do.
Generosity and warmth
We have created a home away from home that feels warm, familiar, and safe. We welcome our residents and guests with open arms and an open heart.
Patience and understanding
We understand that everyone is different and has unique needs and wants, whether they’re a resident, a guest, or a member of staff.
Professionalism and growth
Our residents and guests come first. Always. They’re our reason for being, and they deserve the best service we can offer. That’s why we never stop learning and improving.
Meet our people
Our people are pretty special. With genuine compassion and respect for participants in our care, they’re what sets our disability organisation, I Am Here, apart from other registered NDIS providers.