Eleanor's Story

A tapestry of support, creativity, and independence


Eleanor was born with an intellectual disability. She was also born with Spastic Tetraplgia of the forearms and hands, leaving her with very limited movement in these areas. Eleanor loved to cook and be independent in every day tasks but found she couldn't do these things on her own.

elenor_with_her_craft.jpgEleanor lives in a House With No Steps Group Home which has a team of people who work together to help her live the best life possible and do as much for herself as she can manage. Eleanor has become more positive and social as a person; and has a wealth of creative talents she has nurtured over the years. These talents were undiscovered until Eleanor spent time at House With No Steps Day Programs in Wollongong where her carers encouraged her self expression through work in arts and crafts.

Eleanor has become very good at finding a way to get around her physical restrictions when it comes to expressing herself creatively. Her whole body is involved in the process of weaving her magic through her work. Eleanor has now filled an entire china cabinet full of her creations and proudly shows them off to anyone she can.


Now at 71 years young Eleanor has finally found a place she can really call home. She has woven herself into a wonderful tapestry of support, creativity, respect, self expression and independence. "It's good here because I'm happy now", exclaims Eleanor.

Eleanor lives in a house in the Southern Region. She loves the everyday activities that are offered and having the opportunity to have a say in what happens in her life - something Eleanor has not experienced in the past. Getting out and being part of the community means the world to Eleanor. "I like to go out anywhere; going to the bank, driving and shopping on a Friday", she tells us.

House With No Steps understands the importance of family. We encourage family involvement and connection wherever possible. Eleanor really looks forward to this, especially when her sister, nieces and nephews come to lunch.

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