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Everyone has that one piece of clothing they can’t quite let go of. For 16-year-old Sol, it was her favourite pair of jeans - comfortable, familiar and worn constantly. When a hole appeared, Sol was ready to say goodbye, until a needle, some thread and a dash of creative inspiration changed their future. Sol was one of a group of young people who recently took part in a Youth Collective Textile Art Workshop at the BCR Youth and Community Centre in Sanctuary Point. Rather than discarding damaged or forgotten clothing, participants were invited to bring items from home and learn how to transform them through fabric printing and embroidery. The workshop was facilitated by BCR Community Program Officer Cita Daidone, who brings decades of experience as an art teacher and a strong belief in creativity as a tool for confidence and self-expression. “What we wear often tells a story about who we are,” Cita said. “This workshop was about giving young people the chance to explore their identity, build confidence and realise they can re-imagine something instead of throwing it away.” Through guided activities, participants learned how to embellish, repair and restore clothing - turning holes, stains and worn patches into creative features. For Sol, a simple embroidery flourish meant her much-loved jeans could be worn again. “I’m excited to wear them again,” Sol said. “I haven’t really done printing on fabric or embroidery before, and I’ve liked it a lot because it’s really creative.” Funded by the Office of Regional Youth, the workshop reflects a growing focus on providing young people in regional areas with meaningful opportunities to build confidence, skills and employment pathways close to home. “A spark of an idea can turn into something much bigger,” Cita said. “It might lead to selling handmade pieces at a market stall or online but just as importantly, it creates that moment of realising, ‘I can actually do this’ which is priceless.” Beyond the creative process, the workshop also opened conversations about sustainability. With thousands of clothing items discarded each year, participants were encouraged to think differently about fashion, consumption and waste. The workshop reflects BCR Communities’ ongoing commitment to creativity, sustainability and empowering young people to see new possibilities – not just in their clothing, but in their skills and confidence.

When 20-year-old NDIS participant Bailey Van Den Hooven invites friends into his home, one feature always stands out - a handcrafted bar made from recycled blackwood. What makes it special is that Bailey designed and built it himself through the BCR Communities NDIS Work, Life & Training (WLT) program. After a serious road accident at 15 changed his life, Bailey faced years of rehabilitation and learning new ways to live independently. Through WLT, he was able to reconnect with a lifelong passion for woodworking and turn it into practical, real-world skills. Working alongside BCR staff at the Activities Hub, Bailey developed his craftsmanship, problem-solving and planning skills while bringing his ambitious vision - Bailey’s Bar - to life. Week by week, he built confidence, learned to use tools and materials safely, and saw what was possible when given the right support. Since completing the bar, Bailey has continued to attend the BCR Activities Hub - he has refined his techniques, worked with different timbers and tools, and grown more confident in his craftsmanship. In 2025, Bailey began creating handmade charcuterie boards - carefully designed, beautifully finished and made with the same attention to detail that defined his bar project. Then came a major milestone. On Christmas Eve, Bailey delivered five handcrafted charcuterie boards to his very first customer. It was a proud and meaningful milestone - not just because he had completed a sale, but because it marked a step towards something bigger. Bailey is now working steadily towards his dream of running his own online business, where he hopes to sell his handcrafted charcuterie boards and other woodworking creations. Supported by the team at BCR Communities, Bailey continues to refine his craft, explore new designs and learn what it takes to turn his passion into a small business.

From the stench of boiling whale blubber on the wind to the quiet of a sailor’s grave overlooking Jervis Bay, Uncovering the Bay and Basin  brings to life the stories that have shaped this remarkable stretch of the New South Wales South Coast. Produced in the studios of Bay & Basin 92.7 FM, this locally made history podcast tells big stories in small doses - each episode running under five minutes, perfect for a coffee break, morning walk or drive along the bay. A Local Lens on Local History Every episode blends research, storytelling and sound design to uncover the events and characters that still echo through the Shoalhaven. Written and researched by Wendy Hamlin and hosted by Stephen Brown, Uncovering the Bay and Basin  shines a light on the people, industries and natural forces that helped shape the region we call home. This short-form podcast was created to help listeners reconnect with the landscapes and landmarks they see every day revealing the fascinating stories hidden within the coves, headlands and country towns of the Bay & Basin. Historic Stories of Jervis Bay and the South Coast NSW Across its growing collection of bite-sized episodes, the series spans centuries of local history from the whaling boom and bust to colonial ambition, natural disasters and unexpected links to the nation’s capital. In Whalers of Jervis Bay: Boom, Bust and Legacy , listeners are transported to the early 1900s when shore-based and later Norwegian industrial whaling defined coastal life. The story captures how this once-profitable trade polluted the bay and divided the community before its dramatic collapse paving the way for the whale-watching culture that thrives today. The Wool Road Story  follows convicts and colonists carving a 60-kilometre track from Nerriga to the coast in 1841, an ambitious attempt to turn Jervis Bay into a major wool port. Though the plan failed, its legacy lives on in road names like Larmer Avenue  and Wool Lane  and in the optimism that characterised early colonial Australia. The Sailor’s Grave at Huskisson  explores the poignant resting place of 19-year-old seaman Robert Johnson, whose 1892 drowning forever tied his name to a popular surf break known simply as Sailor’s . The episode connects past and present, reminding listeners how stories of loss and remembrance still shape local identity. In Canberra’s Coastal Cousin – The Jervis Bay Territory , the series uncovers the curious political arrangement that gave land-locked Canberra its own seaside territory. While Discovering Jervis Bay’s Tsunami Past  reveals geological evidence that waves up to 80 metres high once crashed into the cliffs of Beecroft Peninsula, reshaping the coastline thousands of years ago. Listening to the Past More than a history lesson, Uncovering the Bay and Basin  is an invitation to rediscover the region through sound. Drawing on archival research, oral histories and local insight, Wendy Hamlin and Stephen Brown craft engaging snapshots of Shoalhaven life that build pride, connection and curiosity. Each short episode proves that history doesn’t have to be long or dusty - it can be vivid, accessible and right on your doorstep. Whether you’re a lifelong local or a visitor exploring the South Coast NSW, these stories invite you to see the familiar through new eyes. Listen to Uncovering the Bay and Basin  - short, local and unforgettable stories - on the 92.7FM podcast page. https://www.927fm.com.au/uncovering-the-bay-and-basin/

If you have an NDIS plan, the BCR Activities Hub - Work, Life & Training program in Sanctuary Point is the place to start learning the skills you need to transition from your school life into your working life. NDIS WORK, LIFE & TRAINING HISTORY Build confidence, make friends, discover what’s next The NDIS Work, Life & Training Program (WLT) gives people of all ages the chance to learn new skills, build independence and experience real community connection in a way that’s tailored to their goals, interests and strengths. Talk to our NDIS team Request more information Why Work, Life & Training with BCR is Different WLT is built around you. Small groups for personalised, meaningful support BCR’s own real-life workplaces for hands-on experience (café, op shop, lawn & garden crew, radio station, creative studios, carpentry workshop and more) Strong partnerships with local businesses for even more work opportunities Regular goal check-ins to keep you moving forward Open communication with your support network so everyone stays informed and aligned A highly experienced, supportive team who understand NDIS, skill-building and community connection Programs that evolve with you, shaped by your strengths, interests and goals Build confidence, make friends, discover what’s next The NDIS Work, Life & Training Program gives people of all ages the chance to learn new skills, build independence and experience real community connection in a way that’s tailored to your goals, interests and strengths. WORK Build Skills Through Real Experience Try different types of work, learn job skills and build confidence in real community settings. You will gain hands-on experience across BCR workplaces and local businesses, supported every step of the way. Join the BCR Lawn & Garden Crew Explore different industries and roles Build teamwork, communication and job-readiness Step-by-step support toward open or supported employment LIFE Learn everyday skills, socialise with friends and have fun! Our Life pathway focuses on social connection and practical skills that build independence at home, in the community and at work. Learn in fun, supportive environments with people who share your interests. Social activities and fun in the community Cooking, budgeting and daily living skills Travel training - we can even support you to get your Ls Health, wellbeing and confidence building Basic computer skills TRAINING Real Skills for Your Future Training at BCR happens in our own real workplaces, and external workplaces - not classrooms. Build confidence, explore career pathways and learn practical skills that support employment and independence. Develop communication and workplace routines Explore your strengths, interests and career goals Gain experience across BCR’s training café, op shop, radio station, creative studios and lawn and garden crew Support with resumes, interviews and employment preparation Learn in BCR’s Real Life Work Places As a community organisation with multiple social enterprises and purpose-built spaces, BCR offers hands-on learning in safe, supportive, real-life workplaces. If you like being outdoors, the Lawn & Garden Social Enterprise gets you moving. Working side by side with a supportive crew, you will learn practical skills such as gardening, lawn mowing, home maintenance, tool use and workplace safety, while also building teamwork and routine. BCR Lawn and Garden Social Enterprise Crew At the Collective Café, you can build confidence and learn real hospitality skills in a supportive, training café. You’ll have the chance to prepare food, serve customers and work as part of a team, all while learning at your own pace. It’s a friendly space where you can grow your skills, meet new people and feel proud of what you achieve. BCR Work, Life & Training (WLT) Our BCR 2nd Chance Op Shop gives you hands-on experience in a real retail environment. You will greet customers, organise stock, create displays and learn how a shop really runs. It’s a fun, social space where you can build confidence, try new things and be part of a team that makes a difference in the community. BCR 2nd Chance Op Shop In the Carpentry Workshop, you roll up your sleeves and get building. You will learn practical trade skills like measuring, using tools, cutting, sanding and more, by working on real projects. It’s hands-on, focused and incredibly satisfying, especially when you step back and see what you’ve made! BCR Carpentry Workshop The Creative Arts Studios are a creative, hands-on space where you can explore art, music and making. You can paint, create with clay using our on-site kiln, or step into the recording studio to make music and learn about sound production. It’s a welcoming environment where creativity builds confidence, connection and fun. BCR Creative Arts Studio At 92.7FM Community Radio, you get to turn up the volume and have your voice heard. Learn to present live shows, make a podcast, interview guests, choose music and more. It’s creative, exciting and a fantastic way to build communication skills, confidence and connection with the wider community. BCR 92.7FM Community Radio Station Four easy steps... 1. Meet with our highly experienced team. We get to know your interests, strengths and goals. 2. Build your personalised plan. Together we discuss what you want to learn and how we’ll support you. 3. Start your WLT pathway. Join different Work, Life or Training activities at your pace. 4. Check in regularly. We review your goals and adjust your supports as you achieve your goals. BAILEY’S WOODWORKING JOURNEY When 20-year-old NDIS participant Bailey Van Den Hooven invites friends into his home, one feature always stands out - a handcrafted bar made from recycled blackwood. What makes it special is that Bailey designed and built it himself through the BCR Communities NDIS Work, Life & Training (WLT) program. Read more here Ready to take your next step? Talk to our NDIS team Request more information Our team is here to answer your questions and help you find the pathway that is right for you. Contact BCR today to find out more about Work, Life and Training SUBMIT THANK YOU, WE'LL BE IN TOUCH.

BCR Communities Youth Employment Assistance supports young people with disability to build skills, confidence and pathways to work through local training, real work experience and personalised support in the Shoalhaven and Illawarra. YOUTH EMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE HISTORY NDIS Employment Support for Young People Ready to build confidence, learn real-world skills and take your next step towards work? BCR Communities’ Youth Employment Assistance program (formerly School Leaver Employment Supports – SLES) is designed for young people with an NDIS plan who want practical support to move towards employment, independence and a future that feels right for them. Whether you’re still at school, have recently finished, or are figuring out your next step, we’ll meet you where you are and support you to move forward. Real work experience in real workplaces What makes Youth Employment Assistance at BCR Communities different is the way you learn. Instead of sitting in a classroom, you gain hands-on experience in genuine community workplace settings, including: If you like being outdoors, the Lawn & Garden Social Enterprise gets you moving. Working side by side with a supportive crew, you will learn practical skills such as gardening, lawn mowing, home maintenance, tool use and workplace safety, while also building teamwork and routine. BCR Lawn and Garden Social Enterprise Crew At the Collective Café, you can build confidence and learn real hospitality skills in a supportive, training café. You’ll have the chance to prepare food, serve customers and work as part of a team, all while learning at your own pace. It’s a friendly space where you can grow your skills, meet new people and feel proud of what you achieve. BCR Work, Life & Training (WLT) Our BCR 2nd Chance Op Shop gives you hands-on experience in a real retail environment. You will greet customers, organise stock, create displays and learn how a shop really runs. It’s a fun, social space where you can build confidence, try new things and be part of a team that makes a difference in the community. BCR 2nd Chance Op Shop In the Carpentry Workshop, you roll up your sleeves and get building. You will learn practical trade skills like measuring, using tools, cutting, sanding and more, by working on real projects. It’s hands-on, focused and incredibly satisfying, especially when you step back and see what you’ve made! BCR Carpentry Workshop The Creative Arts Studios are a creative, hands-on space where you can explore art, music and making. You can paint, create with clay using our on-site kiln, or step into the recording studio to make music and learn about sound production. It’s a welcoming environment where creativity builds confidence, connection and fun. BCR Creative Arts Studio At 92.7FM Community Radio, you get to turn up the volume and have your voice heard. Learn to present live shows, make a podcast, interview guests, choose music and more. It’s creative, exciting and a fantastic way to build communication skills, confidence and connection with the wider community. BCR 92.7FM Community Radio Station These are real workplaces where you can try new things, build job skills and discover what you enjoy, in a safe and supportive environment. Work experience beyond BCR We don’t just offer work experience within BCR. We also work with local partner businesses to create opportunities beyond our organisation. Through our strong community connections, we match you with safe, supportive workplaces that align with your interests, strengths and goals. This gives you the chance to try different industries, build confidence in new environments and gain experience that feels relevant to the kind of work you’d like to do in the future - all with ongoing guidance and support from our team. Brayden's First Step into the World of Work Every career journey starts with a first step. For Brayden, that step came on a Wednesday morning in August, when he proudly walked into Bunnings Bellambi to begin his very first work experience - excited, nervous and ready to learn. Read more here Support built around your goals Our Youth Employment Assistance program is flexible, practical and personally tailored to you. Your support can include: Building communication, teamwork and workplace skills Learning everyday life skills and routines Exploring different jobs and industries Gaining confidence through community participation Identifying your strengths, interests and career goals Step-by-step support to prepare for open or supported employment We work at your pace, adapting supports as you grow and your goals change. Ready to get started? You don’t need to have everything figured out. If you’re a young person with an NDIS plan looking for employment support, independence or new opportunities, we’re here to help. Contact BCR Communities today to learn more about Youth Employment Assistance and how we can support your pathway to work. Talk to our NDIS team Request more information Why choose BCR Communities? As a local not-for-profit with strong community partnerships, we offer opportunities that many providers can’t. You learn by actually doing, in welcoming environments, supported by a team that genuinely cares about your success. Our point of difference is simple: real workplaces, real experience, real confidence. Frequently asked questions Youth Employment Assistance Who is the Youth Employment Assistance program for? Youth Employment Assistance is for young people with an NDIS plan who want support to build confidence, learn new skills or move towards employment. You don’t need to be leaving school, the program is open to young people at different stages of life who are ready to explore new opportunities. Is Youth Employment Assistance the same as SLES? Yes. Youth Employment Assistance is the updated name for what was previously called School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES). While the name has changed, the purpose remains the same — to support young people with an NDIS plan to build confidence, develop skills and move towards employment and independence. Your NDIS funding and the way supports are delivered stay the same. Do I need an NDIS plan to join the program? Yes. Youth Employment Assistance is funded through the NDIS, so you will need an active NDIS plan with funding that can be used for employment or capacity-building supports. What types of skills can I learn? You can learn job skills, communication skills, teamwork, time management, problem-solving, customer service, and everyday life skills that help you build independence. Training is practical and happens in real workplaces, not a classroom. Where does the work experience happen? You can try different roles across BCR’s community settings, including our training café, op shop, lawn and garden crew, carpentry studio and the 92.7FM community radio station. We also work with local businesses to create additional work experience opportunities. How is the program tailored to my goals? We start by getting to know you - your interests, strengths and what you want for your future. Together, we create a support plan that’s personalised and flexible, and we continually adjust it as your goals and confidence grow. Do I need experience before joining? Not at all. You don’t need any job experience to get started. The program is designed to help young people build skills from the ground up. How often do I attend the program? Your schedule is flexible and based on your NDIS plan and personal goals. Some young people attend a few days a week, while others participate part-time. We’ll work with you to find the right rhythm. Can you help me find work outside of BCR? Yes. We support you to explore different jobs, gain experience in local workplaces and prepare for open or supported employment. When you are ready, we can help with resumes, interviews and connecting with employers. Is transport available? Transport may be available depending on your NDIS plan and your location. Talk to our team and we’ll help work out what’s possible. How do I get started? You can contact BCR Communities directly to chat with our team, ask questions and arrange a time to meet. We will help you understand your options and how Youth Employment Assistance can fit with your goals. Contact BCR today to find out more about our Youth Employment Assistance SUBMIT THANK YOU, WE'LL BE IN TOUCH.

At BCR Communities, we believe NDIS participants living in the Shoalhaven and Illawarra deserve a vibrant and varied life, fully enjoying everything their community has to offer. That's why we started BCR Community Life 1:1 support in the community, tailored just for you! NDIS SOCIAL & COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION HISTORY BCR Community Life Personalised, one-to-one or small group support to help you build confidence, have fun, make friends and stay connected in your community. At BCR Communities, everything we do is tailored to you - your goals, your pace, your community. Our NDIS social & community participation support called BCR Community Life is all about helping you get out, try new things, build confidence and feel connected in ways that are meaningful to you. Whether your goal is to be more independent, build social skills, gain confidence in everyday life or simply enjoy getting out into the community, we’ll support you every step of the way. We take the time to really understand you before matching you with the right support worker and creating a plan that fits your goals, interests and lifestyle. Talk to our NDIS team Request more information Are you ready to build confidence and enjoy your community? Community participation looks different for everyone. That’s why our support is flexible, personalised and either one-to-one or in a small group. Your support might include: Getting out and having fun in your local community Attending appointments, classes, concerts or events Growing confidence using public spaces or transport Shopping, menu-planning and healthy cooking Catching up at cafés or visiting local attractions Staying active through swimming, walking or the gym Reconnecting with hobbies or trying something new Building everyday life skills in real-world settings Supports can be regular and ongoing, or short-term and goal-focused - it’s completely up to you. Local support, real connections Our support workers are locals who know the Shoalhaven and Illawarra inside and out. They understand the community, the hidden gems and the places where people feel comfortable and welcome. That local knowledge means plenty of ideas, whether it’s a secret fishing spot, a beautiful walking track, a cafe to try or somewhere new to explore. Just as importantly, our team takes the time to get to know you, so activities are always matched to your interests, confidence and goals. The best of both worlds! With BCR Community Life, you’ll enjoy the flexibility and personalised support that you would with an independent support worker, but backed by the trust and experience of a local not-for-profit organisation that’s been servicing the local community for 35 years. SCOTTY'S INCREDIBLE BIRTHDAY From the moment he arrived with his BCR Support Worker Leonie, the VIP treatment was in full swing! Renee, the lovely Paramatta Community Liaison Manager, welcomed and escorted Scotty to the Super Fan Viewing Deck, where he was gifted an Eels hat, poster, and football. Then came the moment of a lifetime—Scotty stepped onto the field! Read more here NDIS funding and flexibility NDIS Community Participation is usually funded through: Core Supports – Assistance with Social & Community Participation linked to Capacity Building goals, depending on your plan If you’re not sure what your funding covers, our highly experienced and friendly team can help you understand your options and plan your supports. Let’s work towards your goals together Are you ready to experience the fun, freedom, and flexibility of BCR Community Life? Whether your goal is to build confidence, become more independent, connect socially or try something new, the team at BCR Communities is here to support you. Talk to our NDIS team Request more information Frequently asked questions NDIS Community Participation What is NDIS Community Participation? NDIS Community Participation supports people with disability to take part in everyday social, recreational and community activities. This can include getting out into the community, building confidence, developing life skills, and connecting with others in ways that are meaningful to you. What does NDIS community participation include? Community participation can include activities such as attending appointments, going to cafés, shopping, using public transport, joining classes or events, staying active, building social skills, or reconnecting with hobbies, all with personalised support. Who is NDIS social & community participation for? NDIS social and community participation is for people with disability of all ages who want to build confidence, independence, social connections or everyday life skills in the community and at their own pace. Is social & community participation funded by the NDIS? Yes. NDIS community participation is commonly funded through Core Supports – Assistance with Social & Community Participation, and in some cases may also be linked to Capacity Building goals, depending on your plan. How do I know if my NDIS plan covers social & community participation? If your plan includes Core Supports or goals related to independence, social connection or community access, you may be able to use your funding for community participation. If you’re unsure, BCR Communities can help you understand what your plan covers. Can I use my Core Supports for one-to-one community participation? Yes. Many participants use their Core Supports for one-to-one community participation with a support worker, especially when supports are aligned with their goals and delivered in everyday community settings. Is NDIS community participation one-to-one or group-based? At BCR Communities, our Community Life support can be either one-to-one, a small group, or on occasion, a larger group for get-togethers and major events. This allows supports to be fully personalised to your goals, interests and confidence levels. Do I need to commit to long-term supports? No. Social & community participation supports can be regular and ongoing, or short-term and goal-focused - it’s completely flexible and designed around what works best for you. Do you provide NDIS community participation in the Shoalhaven and Illawarra? Yes. BCR Communities provides NDIS community participation supports across the Shoalhaven and Illawarra including Sanctuary Point and the Bay & Basin, Nowra, Shellharbour, Albion Park and Wollongong, delivered by local support workers who know the area well. Why choose a local NDIS provider for community participation? Local providers understand the community, services and environments where people feel comfortable and welcome. Our local support workers bring practical knowledge and genuine connections that help make participation more meaningful. What makes BCR Communities different from an independent support worker? With BCR Community Life, you get the flexibility of personalised, one-to-one support, backed by the experience, safeguards and community focus of a trusted local not-for-profit with over 35 years of service. Can community participation help with social confidence and anxiety? Yes. Community participation supports can help people gradually build confidence, social skills and comfort in community settings through tailored, strengths-based support. Can supports be adapted as my goals change? Absolutely. Community participation supports are flexible and can evolve as your confidence grows, interests change or new goals emerge. How do I get started with NDIS community participation? Getting started is easy. You can contact BCR Communities on 1300 222 748 or email info@BCRcommunities.com (mailto:info@BCRcommunities.com)to discuss your goals, funding and support options, and we will help design a plan that fits your life. Do I need a support coordinator to access community participation? Not necessarily. If you self-manage or plan-manage your supports, you can contact us directly. We also work closely with support coordinators if you have one. NDIS-CP contact form Contact BCR today to find out more about our Community Participation SUBMIT THANK YOU, WE'LL BE IN TOUCH.