What should my young adult pack?
A trip-specific packing list will be emailed to you two weeks before departure. Generally, it includes comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, personal toiletries, any required medication in original packaging, and a small amount of personal spending money. We highly encourage participants to practice packing their own bags so they know where everything is!
What kind of accommodation do you stay in?
We stay in comfortable group lodges and houses, which our team thoroughly reviews beforehand to ensure they are safe, secure, and suitable for everyone. Rooming arrangements are planned out ahead of time by our team using your getaway information forms to accommodate individual sensitivities and requests.
What kind of activities do you do on these getaways?
Every trip is a balance of high-energy community experiences and relaxing group living! Depending on the destination, activities focus on building real-world independence alongside fun local sightseeing, nature walks, and team games.
How do you handle medications and complex medical routines?
Prior to the trip, we require full disclosure of all health profiles and daily routines via our Fillout information system. Our Co-Hive team manages secure medication storage and provides prompt reminders according to the schedule provided by families. All staff are trained in first aid, incident management, and individual risk-mitigation strategies.
How are meals handled? Do participants need to buy their own food?
Meal planning and preparation are core parts of the independence curriculum! As a group, participants sit down to plan menus, create grocery lists, and shop at local supermarkets. Participants then work in teams to cook breakfasts, dinners, and pack lunches. Base groceries are covered, but participants should bring personal spending money for occasional cafe stops, morning teas, or individual treats.
Where is the pickup and drop-off point?
All our getaways depart from and return to a Co-Hive hub. Detailed departure and return times will be provided in your specific Getaway Participant Manual.
What is the process for securing a spot on a getaway?
1. Expression of Interest: Secure a tentative spot by registering your interest via Humanitix.
2. Individualized Quote: Our team reviews your NDIS plan setup and drafts an individual quote.
3. Out-of-Pocket Payment: Any non-NDIS funded costs are invoiced via Xero prior to departure.
4. Service Agreement & Sign-Off: The quote is sent to you electronically via Dropbox Sign. Once signed and OOPs are paid, your spot is officially confirmed.
How is an Independence Getaway funded under the NDIS?
We structure our getaways to be as flexible as possible using your NDIS plan. There are generally two pathways:
1. Short Term Respite (STR): If you have STR funding, this can package your support hours, accommodation, base meals, and transport into an all-inclusive quote.
2. Core / Capacity Building Supports: Support hours are claimed through your plan, while baseline travel items (accommodation split, transport fuel, out-of-pocket costs) are invoiced separately.
What is the group size and staff-to-participant ratio?
To maintain a cozy and supportive atmosphere, we travel in small cohorts around 8 to 12 participants accompanied by a Co-Hive support team. Ratios are determined safely based on the collective needs of the group.
My young adult has never stayed away from home before. Are these trips suitable?
Yes, absolutely! Our getaways are an excellent first step toward independent living. We utilize a "fading support" model, meaning our team is highly attentive to safety and comfort but intentionally steps back to allow your young adult to problem-solve, cook, and manage their routines. If you are unsure, speak with our team to assess readiness.
Who can join a Co-Hive Independence Getaway?
Our getaways are designed exclusively for current or previous Co-Hive participants ("Co-Hivers") who are young adults with mild disabilities or neurodivergence. Because these trips are focused on building real-world independence in a group setting, participants must already be familiar with Co-Hive’s community and values.