Harold and Barbara have known each other since they were teenagers. They both have lived in boarding houses throughout New South Wales for most of their lives. They used to see each other at local get togethers but both were too shy to say much back then. Slowly and steadily they developed a solid friendship over the years.

Harold and Barb were introduced to HWNS in 1998 when they lived together in a boarding house in the Highlands. Harold and Barbara eventually ended up living in the same HWNS group home.

After first moving out of the boarding house Barbara and Harold became separated. Barbara had to move away, and it was then that they realised they couldn’t live without each other. HWNS support staff could see the romance blossoming and it was clear that they were happy together. So began the plans to reunite them. 

Harold was so thrilled when Barbara first moved back to Mittagong that he asked her to marry him. Barbara was overjoyed and happily accepted. They are a lovely couple in every way. They are very comfortable with each other and can often be found arm in arm or looking at each other adoringly.

Whilst living in a group home with others was fine for a while, Harold and Barbara really needed a place of their own. Fortunately, a suitable home became available. HWNS was able to offer them a small two bedroom unit that is part of a modest complex near Wollongong. It’s not out in the country but there is a small garden for them to tend.

Harold and Barb both need significant support and guidance as individuals. The unit provides them with more independence but support is close at hand. Harold and Barbara are absolutely delighted with their new home. Barbara is currently knitting a bed cover with any wool she can get her hands on and would really like a bird bath to put in the courtyard. They miss the countryside and would like to attract the birds and give the place more of a country feel.

Friendships and relationships enrich our lives and are a positive experience for us all. Often the isolation that people with a disability face minimises the opportunity of finding companionship. We at HWNS understand how important it is to provide outlets for the people whom we support to live, work, connect and learn in the community.

The relationship that Harold and Barbara share is the same as any other married couple and makes a big difference to their happiness in life.