What We DO
Skill Builders HQ
Skill Builders HQ is an NDIS group-based service which is unlike anything you’ve seen before! Instead of the usual day services you’re used to, SBHQ is a Social Enterprise which runs a fully trading business.
The SBQH initiative is perfect for you if:
- You want to learn skills which actually build your independence, and help you to get a job doing something you love.
- Want an NDIS day-service which is group-based, and which runs 7 days per week.
- Is fully supported by qualified support workers.
At SBHQ we have two main goals:
- To support participants to build skills by applying real-life situations, and
- To build the financial capacity of participants by returning all trading profits back to them.
SBHQ is a fully trading enterprise. We work together and with other community-based organisations such as the Men’s Shed and Women’s Shed to:
- Restore and sell pre-loved furniture.
- Make wood-workings, toys, leather-goods, and pottery.
- Create paintings, arts and crafts, and customised knick-knacks.
We sell these items to the public to make a profit. ALL the money generated is split amongst the participants – and that’s why it’s a Social Enterprise!
Most important of all is that we rely on the skills and expertise of participants to keep the business running – and we help you to build your skills in a supportive, group-based environment.
What is a Social Enterprise?
Social Enterprises are trading business which exist to create social impact – they actively help people or the planet.
SBHQ is a new type of Social Enterprise which creates impact by dividing its profits amongst the NDIS Participants who participate. The aim is not only to create opportunities for people to learn new skills within a trading business, but to enhance the financial independence of participants.
How does it work?
SBHQ earns revenue by restoring pre-loved furniture and other items (which are often donated) and selling these for a profit. Volunteers, qualified disability support workers and expert tradespeople from the Men’s Shed and Women’s Shed work alongside NDIS participants to restore pieces, and also to make new items for sale such as paintings.
Every month, the profits are tallied and are divided amongst all NDIS participants based on their attendance. The amounts are then deposited into a nominated bank account.
How am I supported while I am there?
SBHQ operates its group-based services 7 days’ per week and utilises skilled, qualified and screened disability support workers and mentors. When you apply for acceptance into SkillBuilders HQ, a qualified Practitioner will work with the participant, Nominee or Support Coordinator to understand the most appropriate support ratio while at the service, and how to access NDIS Core Support funding.
An Individual Plan will be developed which outlines any specific support requirements as well as your preferences. Importantly, it details all of the participant’s goals and aspirations, and sets out how best to reach these goals through building skills.
How do I get there?
SBHQ provides transport to and from the service, 7 days’ per week. This is funded through the relevant parts of the participant’s NDIS plan.
When can I attend?
SBHQ’s group-based day services operate 7 days’ per week between 8:00AM and 6:00PM, and participants are able to select which days to attend. There is no minimum or maximum requirement, but days are to be agreed upon in advance so that NDIS Service Agreements can be prepared.
What if I have questions or concerns?
An SBHQ Coordinator is onsite at all times to answer any queries or concerns.