My Visit to Summer Hill House: A Place Like No Other

Anna and John have been coming to Summer Hill since he was just six years old. He’s now 20. Over those 14 years, the house has become a second home for them both. For Anna, respite is not simply about taking a break – it’s about knowing her son is safe, respected, and most importantly, happy. The respite also allows her to reconnect with her other adult children who live across New South Wales and overseas. After a weekend at Summer Hill, John heads home on a Sunday and by Tuesday, he’s already asking when he can return. That speaks volumes. 

What truly sets Summer Hill House apart is the team’s commitment to clinical excellence and person-centred care. Unlike many respite options, Summer Hill House provides Registered Nurse coverage 24/7. With oxygen and suction available in every room, parents can feel confident their loved ones are in capable hands.

The design of the house itself is also thoughtful and inclusive. Every person has their own private room, ensuring dignity, independence, and comfort. The house is divided into juniors (under 18) and seniors (over 18), allowing staff to tailor routines and environments to different age groups. Whether it's a lively school holiday period or a quieter weekday, the house maintains a gentle, balanced energy. As someone who also manages a NDIS budget, I couldn’t help but think how underused midweek respite care is. Weekdays are often more affordable, less busy, and just as rewarding. 

The activity program is another highlight. Summer Hill House offers a mix of in-house and community-based outings, led by a dedicated Senior Support Worker. I met Emma, a regular participant, who glowed when telling me about her weekly hot chocolate outings and her continued chats with staff via FaceTime after her stays. These connections go beyond client-care relationships – they are genuine friendships. 

Because many of the staff are medically trained, Summer Hill House can cater to people with total parenteral nutrition (TPN), those who are ventilated and even on occasion, individuals receiving palliative care. At the entrance, I noticed a wooden bench dedicated to a former participant who received end-of-life care here. It’s a small but powerful gesture – a reminder that everyone who comes through this house leaves a lasting mark.

I was equally impressed by the professionalism and empathy of the team. I spoke with Kellie a Registered Nurse who has worked at Summer Hill for five years. Her warmth was undeniable. Emma, the participant, lit up talking about her: “Kellie is awesome and deserves a 10 percent pay rise every day!” That light-hearted comment reflects just how valued the staff are by those they support. 

Emma’s days are filled with meaningful engagement – from chairing meetings and 80’s music dance parties to helping with paperwork (pink paper only, of course!). These small routines give her a sense of ownership and pride. Watching her interact confidently with others was a touching example of what true inclusion looks like. 

One concern that comes up often in the disability community is staff turnover. I asked Anna about it, and she admitted that while some change is inevitable over 14 years, the quality of care has remained high. Since Achieve took over in 2018, the focus on consistency and training has been clear. Today, the facility has 10 private rooms, a GP on-call after hours, and even a galaxy-themed sensory room in the works. The outdoor areas are spacious and inviting – perfect for a picnic when family comes to visit.

For some families, Summer Hill House becomes vital during overseas trips. If a person needs to go to hospital while in care, a Registered Nurse accompanies them and stays by their side. That level of continuity is rare and incredibly valuable. “If anything happens while I’m overseas,” Anna said, “I know John won’t be alone.” 

Perhaps what stood out to me most was the way joy and inclusion are woven into the everyday. From superhero parties to petting zoos, music therapy, and sensory play, every activity is built around celebrating the individual. Here, staff don’t just see disability – they see personality, potential, and preferences. 

Whether a participant is in statutory out-of-home care, voluntary care, or visiting for a short stay, the standard of support remains the same. Everyone is treated with dignity. Everyone is seen. 

As someone who has spent years navigating the disability support system, I can confidently say that Summer Hill House sets the gold standard. It’s more than just a place to go – it’s a place to belong. A home away from home, where families can exhale, and where people are celebrated for exactly who they are, and that’s what makes it like no other.