Supported Independent Living Steering Group
A new collaborative research project is bringing people together to explore practical ways to eat well and be active in supported independent living (SIL) accommodation.
Led by Metro South Health and Griffith University, the Healthy SIL project is guided by a dedicated steering group of people with disability, SIL providers, researchers, and healthcare professionals.
The combined expertise, lived experience, and perspectives of the diverse group members ensures the project remains grounded in what matters most to the people it addresses.
Maria Hoogstrate, a steering group member and project co-researcher, brings both lived experience of disability and professional expertise in community services and inclusive technology research. Maria said SIL homes play an important role in everyday life for people with disability.
“Support workers often assist with shopping, meal preparation, daily routines, and community participation, placing them in a unique position to influence healthy living,” said Maria.
“The Healthy SIL project aims to develop practical and sustainable strategies by working directly with the people who know best – people living in SIL homes, their families, and support workers.
“The co-design method in this project recognises that people are the experts in their own lives.
“By working together, we can create solutions that are meaningful, inclusive, and more likely to make a real difference.”
The Healthy SIL project is supported by the Health Equity and Access Team and a collaboration grant from Metro South Study, Education and Research Trust Account and Griffith University Health Group.
For more information, contact HealthySIL@health.qld.gov.au.