Connor's Story: He Didn’t Just Move In — He Found a Community

These days, Connor is busy living life — working at a takeaway shop, bowling with his cricket club, and kicking back in a home that’s all his. And when he talks about how it’s going, one word comes up a lot: happy.

But it took a few turns to get here.

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When It Was Time to Move On

Diagnosed with autism at a young age, Connor grew up with his mum and brother in a supportive home. But as he got older, so did his need for independence — more space, more say, more freedom.

He tried moving out once before, but the place felt cold and disconnected. He missed having people around. “I wanted to live on my own,” he says, “but not feel alone.”

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The Right Move — and the Right Mix

That changed when Connor moved into one of our Vertical Villages at United for Care. Here, he found the best of both worlds: privacy and independence, with a team — and a community — just outside his door.

“It felt right” he says. “I had my own space, but I wasn’t on my own.”

At United for Care, every home is different — but one thing stays the same: spaces that invite connection. Whether it’s a shared lounge, a quiet kitchen, or a sunny backyard, there’s always a spot to catch up, check in, or just be around others. And for Connor, those little moments — a chat in the hallway, a friendly wave from a neighbour — have made a big difference.

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Rebuilding What Matters

Since settling in, Connor says the biggest shift has been in his relationships. He’s been reconnecting with his mum and now enjoys having her over — showing her around and letting her see the life he’s built.

Outside the home, his world’s expanded too. He’s working locally, playing cricket on weekends, and slowly weaving himself into the rhythm of the community.

“Social connection is really important to me,” he says. “It keeps me happy. It keeps me going.”

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Support That Doesn’t Get in the Way

Connor has found his stride — doing things for himself, with the right people behind him when it counts. That support, mixed with independence, has given him the confidence to take on more.

“I’m happy because I feel supported, but also free.”

Connor’s story is proof that independence doesn’t mean doing it all alone. With the right home, the right team, and the right opportunities to connect, people can build lives they’re proud of — and communities that feel like home.

👉 Explore our vacancies NDIS Housing SIL Accommodation in Sydney | United for Care

👉 Discover what makes our Vertical Villages unique in supporting independence and wellbeing: Read more here.

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