OUR History
Our story begins in 2019 in the suburb of Berwick, Melbourne, where our Founder, Cody Stonehouse, had recently relocated from Tinamba, Gippsland, to begin his studies and thus kick-start his career in the social work sector. Cody began studying a Bachelor of Community and Human Services at Federation University Australia – Berwick campus – so he could become a Social Worker post-graduation.
Shortly after commencing his studies, Cody felt it was in his best interest to obtain a job in the social work sector to have experience in conjunction with his degree. As such, Cody discussed his options with a friend – who was studying Occupational Therapy – and she gave him the idea to become a Disability Support Worker (DSW).
Several weeks later, Cody became a DSW for a registered NDIS provider and reached capacity rapidly by obtaining eight clients who have similar interests and hobbies. By the end of the third month, Cody fell in love with his role as a DSW and decided then that this was the career he would continue with after concluding his studies.
When Cody entered his second year of study, he was required to undergo his first round of Field Placement. Coincidently, Cody managed to secure a position within the Latrobe Community Health Services NDIS team at the Narre Warren office. During this placement, Cody shadowed the Local Area Coordinators, which enhanced his knowledge and understanding of the NDIS on a more comprehensive scale.
While Cody was studying and working full-time, he reached enlightenment that if he remained working for the registered NDIS provider, he was not going to be able to progress further in his career. As such, Cody decided to establish Out ‘n’ About: Disability Support Services so he could thrive in the sector by providing a more enriched and vibrant experience for his clients.
Out ‘n’ About Disability Support Services has now supported over a dozen participants and their families since its establishment. Our clients are treated with the utmost respect and integrity during their sessions while having choice and control in their lives. At the same time, we support our clients in achieving their goals and aid them on their journey of personal growth and development so they can live as autonomously as possible.
