A newly refurbished respite home has opened in Armidale, with local charity the Ascent Group unveiling the updated space aimed at supporting people with disability and their families across the New England region.
The two-bedroom home has been redesigned to provide short-term accommodation for both adults and children, with organisers saying the focus was on creating a welcoming environment that feels like a home rather than a facility.
Respite services provide temporary care and support for people with disability, allowing carers and families to take a break from their day-to-day caring responsibilities. Breaks can range from a few hours to several weeks and are widely recognised as important in helping carers maintain their own wellbeing and avoid burnout.
Access to respite services can be particularly difficult in regional and rural areas, where support options are often limited despite disability rates being higher outside major cities.
Located in Armidale, the new respite service offers flexible stays tailored to individual needs, while also giving carers and families an opportunity to rest and recharge.
Ascent CEO Penny Lamaro said the project reflected the organisation’s long-standing commitment to supporting local families.
“We’ve been part of this community for many years, and we know how important it is for people to feel safe, comfortable, and genuinely cared for,” Ms Lamaro said.
“This home is about creating a place where people can just be themselves — where families feel confident their loved ones are supported, and where everyone gets the chance to take a breather when they need it.”
The service includes 24-hour specialised support, home-style meals and a range of activities tailored to guests, from community outings around Armidale to quiet time at the house. Transport is also available for local participants.
Ascent Operations Manager Johanna Watson said flexibility and comfort had been central to the redesign.
“We wanted this to feel like a home, not a facility,” Ms Watson said.
“Whether someone wants to get out and enjoy everything Armidale has to offer, or simply relax with a movie and a good meal, we work around what matters most to them.”
The respite home operates under the same person-centred approach used across Ascent’s broader disability support services, with the organisation saying continuity of care and dignity were key priorities.
Bookings for the service are now open, with Ascent encouraging families and NDIS participants to make contact early.
“Respite can make a real difference — for the person staying with us and for their family,” Ms Lamaro said.
“We’re proud to be able to offer this space to our community.”
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