Like Family aims to build a community of locals who can help NDIS participants with disability support services. They now have a growing network of 4,000+ social carers in South East Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales.
What’s the inspiration behind Like Family?
Founders Mat and Jenna established Like Family in 2016. Back then, Mat’s dad was recovering from lung cancer, while his mum was recuperating from encephalitis, a type of viral brain inflammation.
Both Mat and Jenna have busy day jobs hence they are unable to give Mat’s parents proper round-the-clock care. More than anything, Mat’s parents needed assistance in performing routinary tasks such as getting around the neighbourhood, having good company, and engaging in social activities to help them connect more with their community. They needed someone like family, especially during those times when their family couldn’t be there.
This incident helped helped shape the beginning of Like Family.
What’s unique about Like Family?
Like Family is more than just an online platform where individuals can search for and book a social carer.
They focus on creating a community by matching the needs of NDIS participants with local social carers who share the same interests as them. Like Family’s website has an algorithm that recommends social carers to participants based on location, age, gender and interests.
Their support workers are ready to help with any non-medical services. These can include: arts and crafts, meal preparation and grocery shopping, event buddies, fun and games, outdoor adventures, household tasks, and group activities. They also hold over 11 virtual events happening almost every day, such as movie and game nights, boxing, dance and exercise classes, and meditation.
See their full list of virtual events: click here
How can someone find and book a social carer?
To find and book a social carer, visit their website at likefamily.com.au. A participant has the option to either message a social carer that aligns with his/her interests and needs. Alternatively, they can also post an advertisement for an activity that they will need support in, such as going to a skate park or doing weekly grocery shopping.
Feature image: In the leftmost is a young girl with ginger-coloured hair. She is wearing eyeglasses and a colourful floral top. She is seen posing with a tennis racket held on her right hand. In the middle of the photo is a younger kid who also has ginger-coloured hair and is wearing a cream-coloured headband. Her t-shirt has black and white horizontal stripes. She is holding a tennis racket raised up in the air. On the rightmost is a smiling female adult with blonde hair and is sporting a high ponytail hairstyle. She has a pink top and is wearing silver necklace accessories.
