Some Horsham NDIS participants with complex mental health needs will soon have new homes when a vacant lot in the city is turned into self-contained units.
Haven Foundation's social housing facility will be built on the site opposite Wimmera Base Hospital in Baillie Street, which was often used as a car park.
A subsidiary of Mind Australia, the foundation has planned fourteen apartments, each with its own kitchen, living room, laundry and outdoor area, a communal living area, staff office and activity rooms.
Recent data suggested more than 200 residents across the Mallee with psychosocial disabilities have NDIS plans.
The homes encourage independent living and a Mind Australia spokesperson said their location close to the hospital was a coincidence, not a deliberate choice.
"Hospital staff are not required at Haven residences," the spokesperson said.
"The Haven Foundation residences work in partnership with local area mental health services to provide clinical support.
"Sites for Haven Foundation residences are strategically chosen to be in locations that have easy access to public transport, shops and community facilities."
Completion due 2024
Mind Australia will manage the units, and staff will be onsite 24 hours a day to help residents develop life and social skills, as well as confidence.
"They are a place for people with significant mental health and wellbeing concerns to live independently while receiving support from qualified mental health workers who help them to achieve their unique NDIS Plan goals," the Mind Australia spokesperson said.
The Victorian government's Big Housing Build scheme has provided $4.9 million for the housing complex.
Construction is due to start early next year, and is expected to be completed by May 2024.
Haven Foundation residences have operated in Victoria since 2011.
The foundation currently has six residences in South Yarra, Frankston, Geelong, Mooroopnam, Epping and Laverton supporting more than 90 people in Victoria.
Several other sites, including the one in Horsham, are being designed and developed.
