#medium term accommodation

[premiumdisablity]

Understand How A Disability Service Provider Can Help with Medium Term Accommodation

Finding suitable housing can be challenging for everyone, but for individuals with disabilities, it can be even more complex. Fortunately, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a disability service provider that offers support through Medium Term Accommodation (MTA). This blog explores how disability service providers (DSPs) can be invaluable partners in navigating the process of securing MTA.

Understanding Medium Term Accommodation

Medium Term Accommodation is a temporary housing solution funded by the NDIS for participants who cannot immediately move into their permanent housing due to a lack of disability support or while waiting for modifications to be completed on a long-term residence. It is designed to bridge the gap and provide stability during this transition period.

The Role of Disability Service Providers in MTA

DSPs play a crucial role in supporting NDIS participants with MTA. Here's how they can help:

Assessing Needs and Eligibility: DSPs can assess your individual needs and determine if MTA is the right solution for you. They will consider your disability, current living situation, and the reason for needing temporary housing.

Gathering Information and Documentation: The NDIS application process requires specific documentation. DSPs can assist you in gathering the necessary information, such as medical reports, support worker reports, and quotes for potential MTA options.

Finding Suitable Accommodation: DSPs have a network of contacts and knowledge of local resources. They can help you find MTA options that meet your accessibility needs, budget, and location preferences. This could include accessible serviced apartments, boarding houses, or supported living environments.

Negotiating Rates and Leases: DSPs can advocate on your behalf when negotiating rental agreements with potential MTA providers. They can ensure the terms are fair and address any accessibility concerns you might have.

Application Support and Communication: DSPs can guide you through the NDIS application process for MTA funding. They can help complete the application forms, ensure all necessary documentation is included, and communicate effectively with the NDIS on your behalf.

Ongoing Support During Your Stay: Even after securing MTA, DSPs can continue to provide support. They can assist with budgeting, and daily living tasks if needed, and help you connect with relevant community resources during your temporary stay.

Finding suitable temporary housing can be a significant hurdle on your journey towards permanent, accessible housing. Disability service providers can be invaluable partners in securing Medium Term Accommodation through the NDIS.

Source

[raphacareau]

What is Medium Term Accommodation?

The rapid growth of short-term rentals, also known as STR or STTR, has put traditional hotel accommodation companies under pressure. These home-awayfrom-home services offer guests the opportunity to travel longer, soak up new experiences and enjoy a more flexible and social stay. They are a popular choice for people who need to be away from their family or work, as well as those who like to do “bleisure” (business and pleasure) travel.

Despite the huge gains in supply, they don’t offer as much flexibility or privacy as hotels. They can be more expensive and tend to only offer one or two bedrooms. However, they are ideal for those looking to live in a new place while they find a long term home or to take the time out of their current situation to focus on regaining health and wellbeing.

In the disability sector, they offer the chance for people with a disability to live independently and experience life differently. They can connect with nature and new friends/family, increase their independence, learn skills and meet different people. Unlike STA, medium term accommodation does not cover the cost of personal care or other support services. It only covers the costs of where they live.

Medium Term Accommodation, or MTA, is a type of core support funding that is available for some NDIS participants. It can be used to fund short or medium term housing and will typically last up to 90 days. MTA is only funded when a participant is waiting for their long term housing and has a confirmed support plan.

The NDIS is aiming to prevent younger people with a disability from entering aged care by 2022, and MTA is an excellent way for them to bridge the gap between their existing housing options and long term accommodation. It can be an ideal solution for participants who are waiting for SDA to become vacant or built, who are at risk of living in residential aged care or who have a high level of care needs that would make STA unsuitable.

If you’re interested in learning more about MTA or would like to be considered for this support, please reach out to Thrive365 and we can talk with you about your options. We are currently accepting applications from people with a range of eligibility criteria including MTA, and we can provide you with a list of housing providers that accept this funding. We can also help you to navigate the NDIS price guide and work with you to find a long term plan that suits your needs.

[premiumdisability]

The NDIS and Medium Term Accommodation

When a participant is in the market for a new home, the NDIS may offer funding for Medium Term Accommodation (MTA). It's an ideal solution for a participant who needs temporary housing while waiting for a long term residence. The NDIS has also been known to fund short-term stays, such as those during rehab or a hospital stay. However, this type of funding is not available to everyone.

In order to obtain MTA funding, the participant must have a disability. The participant must also have proof of need. This can include a medical diagnosis or evidence of an ongoing or imminent housing need.

The NDIS has a number of registered providers of medium term accommodation NDIS. They offer a wide range of accommodation options, including comfortable, modern homes and daily life support services.

As well as providing a safe and secure place to live, these homes provide personal care and assistance to help participants achieve their fullest potential. For example, many of the homes provide nursing, capacity building group activities and assistive technology.

Alternatively, the MTA may be part of a larger residential housing solution. If you're considering moving into specialist disability accommodation, you'll need to consider other aspects of your accommodation and living plan. During your application, your NDIS planner will discuss additional supports you might need.

Medium Term Accommodation is not a replacement for informal support. Rather, it's designed to meet your particular disability-related housing requirements. Whether you need an interim home or a permanent residential solution, there's a wide variety of options.

There are a few steps you can take to get the NDIS to approve your application for MTA. First, you must identify your home and living needs and determine the right NDIS plan for you. Next, you can contact a local Area Coordinator to help you locate the best MTA provider. Finally, you'll need to fill out an application form. Keep in mind that this process can take some time, so be prepared.

Luckily, the National Disability Insurance Scheme has a dedicated team of professionals who are here to guide you every step of the way. From your initial application to a final decision, the NDIS will do its best to reach a conclusion in ten days or less.

In addition, the NDIS has a plethora of information to help you understand how the scheme works. Among other things, the NDIS has a portal where you can explore providers, use a Housing Seeker profile to track your own housing needs, and access other resources.

The NDIS also has an operational guidelines document, which you can consult to find out more about when the NDIS is most likely to fund your MTA. Those guidelines are constantly changing, so check in with your NDIS planner to make sure your plan is up to date. A good rule of thumb is to keep your needs top of mind at all times.

The NDIS is a great option for people with disabilities waiting for a permanent residence. However, it's important to remember that you're still responsible for all of your day-to-day living costs.

Premium Disability Support Services is an NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) Service Provider based in Melbourne. We provide disability support services all across Melbourne. We support all individuals with disabilities to develop the skills and capabilities that they require to achieve independence and participate in society.

[altruisticcareservices]

Your Complete Guide to NDIS Short Term Accommodation

At Altruistic Care Services, we understand the importance of finding suitable accommodation options that meet the unique needs of NDIS participants. Short term and medium term accommodation play a crucial role in providing respite and support for individuals with disabilities and their carers. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about NDIS short term accommodation and medium term accommodation, and how Altruistic Care Services can assist you in accessing these services.

Understanding NDIS Short Term Accommodation:

Short term accommodation, also known as respite care or short stay accommodation, offers temporary accommodation and support services for NDIS participants who require assistance with daily living tasks. This type of accommodation provides a break for both participants and their carers, allowing them to recharge and participate in other activities while ensuring that the participant's care needs are met.

Key Features of NDIS Short Term Accommodation:

24/7 Support: NDIS short term accommodation facilities are staffed with trained support workers who provide round-the-clock assistance and supervision to participants.

Personalised Care Plans: Each participant receives a personalised care plan tailored to their individual needs and preferences, ensuring that their support requirements are met effectively.

Accessible Facilities: Short term accommodation facilities are designed to be accessible and inclusive, with features such as wheelchair ramps, accessible bathrooms, and sensory-friendly environments.

Recreational Activities: Participants have the opportunity to engage in a range of recreational and social activities during their stay, promoting social inclusion and community participation.

Benefits of NDIS Short Term Accommodation:

Respite for Carers: Short term accommodation provides much-needed respite for carers, allowing them to take a break from their caregiving responsibilities and attend to their own wellbeing.

Opportunity for Socialisation: Participants have the chance to socialise and connect with peers in a supportive and inclusive environment, fostering friendships and a sense of belonging.

Skill Development: Short term accommodation services may offer skill-building activities and programs to help participants develop independence and life skills.

Peace of Mind: Families and carers can have peace of mind knowing that their loved ones are receiving quality care and support in a safe and welcoming environment.

Medium Term Accommodation NDIS:

Medium term accommodation NDIS provides longer-term accommodation and support options for NDIS participants who require ongoing assistance with daily living tasks but do not require permanent residential care. This type of accommodation offers stability and continuity of care, allowing participants to live independently with the necessary support.

How Altruistic Care Services Can Help:

At Altruistic Care Services, we specialise in connecting NDIS participants with suitable accommodation options that meet their needs and preferences. Our experienced team works closely with participants, their families, and support coordinators to identify the most appropriate short term or medium term accommodation solutions. We provide personalised support throughout the process, from initial assessment to ongoing coordination of care services.

In conclusion, NDIS short term accommodation and medium term accommodation play a vital role in supporting the needs of individuals with disabilities and their families. With Altruistic Care Services by your side, you can access high-quality accommodation options that promote independence, inclusion, and wellbeing. Contact us today to learn more about our accommodation services and how we can assist you on your NDIS journey.

[123care]

Why is Hiring Medium-term Accommodation NDIS Providers Right Choice?

The NDIS provides support to people with disabilities to help them achieve their pretensions and live an independent life. One of the essential supports provided by the NDIS is accommodation. Medium-term accommodation NDIS providers offer a range of benefits to people with disabilities and their families. Then, here are some reasons why hiring proficient medium-term accommodation NDIS providers in Brisbane is the right choice.

Inflexibility

Skilled medium-term accommodation NDIS providers in Adelaide offer flexible options for people with disabilities who need accommodations for a longer period of time. This accommodation can be customised to meet the specific requirements of the existing facility, similar to availability, safety, and security. Providers can also offer support services that can be acclimatised to the existing conditions.

Cost-Effective

Medium-term accommodation providers offer cost-effective results for people with disabilities. The costs are frequently lower than other forms of accommodation, similar to hospices or long-term rental options. Providers can also offer payment plans to make the accommodations more affordable for individuals and families.

Support Services

Medium-term accommodation NDIS providers in Brisbane offer a range of support services that can help people with disabilities live an independent life. These services can include particular care, transportation, and support for diurnal tasks. Providers can also offer social conditioning that helps people with disabilities connect with others and form connections.

Good Staff

Medium-term accommodation providers have qualified and trained staff who are experienced in providing support to people with disabilities. The staff is trained to handle different situations and can give the necessary backing to help people with disabilities achieve their pretensions and live independent life.

Access to Community

Medium-term accommodation NDIS providers in Adelaide frequently have fields in different areas, providing access to different communities. This can help people with disabilities connect with others in their community and create a support network.

Medium-term accommodation NDIS providers offer a range of benefits to people with disabilities and their families. They offer inflexibility, cost-effective results, support services, good staff, and access to the community. By hiring a medium-term accommodation NDIS provider, people with disabilities can achieve their pretensions, live an independent life, and make connections with others in their community.

[vishalnimbalkar1325]

medium term accommodation in Melbourne

Medium Term Accommodation in Melbourne  - MTA works in a similar way to SDA, with the exception that its price cap only applies to the dwelling component"

[business011]

Caring Hearts is now a cost-effective solution for all the disabled. We provide budget friendly short-term accommodations and NDIS medium-term accommodations in the Melbourne area. To obtain a free quote, please contact us at 1800 844 995. 

[premiumdisablity]

Bridge the Gap- How Medium Term Accommodation Supports Independent Living

Whether you're transitioning from a care facility, leaving home for the first time, or navigating a change in your living situation, finding the right balance of support and autonomy can feel like a tightrope walk. This is where medium term accommodation (MTA) steps in, offering a vital bridge between dependence and full independence.

What is Medium Term Accommodation?

MTA is a temporary housing solution designed to support individuals on their journey towards supported independent living. Unlike traditional short-term stays, MTA programs typically last for weeks or even months, providing a stable and secure environment during a crucial transition period. This allows individuals to build essential life skills and gain the confidence needed to thrive in a permanent home setting.

How Does MTA Support Independence?

MTA programs offer a range of benefits that empower individuals to take charge of their lives. Here are some key ways MTA bridges the gap:

Skills Development: Many MTA programs provide support services that teach valuable life skills, such as budgeting, meal planning, housekeeping, and personal care. Residents may receive assistance with tasks like grocery shopping, cooking, and managing transportation, gradually increasing their independence over time.

Building Confidence: Living in a supportive environment helps individuals gain the confidence needed to manage their own lives. MTA programs often offer workshops and resources on topics like social interaction, conflict resolution, and self-advocacy, empowering residents to navigate challenges they may encounter.

Social Interaction: MTA settings can foster a sense of community and belonging. Residents have the opportunity to interact with peers facing similar situations, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting social confidence.

Who Can Benefit From MTA?

MTA is a valuable resource for a wide range of individuals, including:

Young adults transitioning from a care facility or leaving home for the first time.

People with disabilities seek to gain independence.

Individuals recovering from an injury or illness who require temporary support.

Anyone navigating a change in their living situation and needing a bridge to permanent housing.

Ultimately, MTA is more than just housing. It's a stepping stone on the journey towards independent living, providing a supportive environment where individuals can develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive on their own.

Source - https://premiumdisablityservices.blogspot.com/2024/07/bridge-gap-how-medium-term.html

[raphacareau]

What is Medium Term Accommodation?

The rapid growth of short-term rentals, also known as STR or STTR, has put traditional hotel accommodation companies under pressure. These home-awayfrom-home services offer guests the opportunity to travel longer, soak up new experiences and enjoy a more flexible and social stay. They are a popular choice for people who need to be away from their family or work, as well as those who like to do “bleisure” (business and pleasure) travel.

Despite the huge gains in supply, they don’t offer as much flexibility or privacy as hotels. They can be more expensive and tend to only offer one or two bedrooms. However, they are ideal for those looking to live in a new place while they find a long term home or to take the time out of their current situation to focus on regaining health and wellbeing.

In the disability sector, they offer the chance for people with a disability to live independently and experience life differently. They can connect with nature and new friends/family, increase their independence, learn skills and meet different people. Unlike STA, medium term accommodation does not cover the cost of personal care or other support services. It only covers the costs of where they live.

Medium Term Accommodation, or MTA, is a type of core support funding that is available for some NDIS participants. It can be used to fund short or medium term housing and will typically last up to 90 days. MTA is only funded when a participant is waiting for their long term housing and has a confirmed support plan.

The NDIS is aiming to prevent younger people with a disability from entering aged care by 2022, and MTA is an excellent way for them to bridge the gap between their existing housing options and long term accommodation. It can be an ideal solution for participants who are waiting for SDA to become vacant or built, who are at risk of living in residential aged care or who have a high level of care needs that would make STA unsuitable.

If you’re interested in learning more about MTA or would like to be considered for this support, please reach out to Thrive365 and we can talk with you about your options. We are currently accepting applications from people with a range of eligibility criteria including MTA, and we can provide you with a list of housing providers that accept this funding. We can also help you to navigate the NDIS price guide and work with you to find a long term plan that suits your needs.

[premiumdisability]

Finding Short Term Accommodation East Melbourne

If you're planning a trip to Melbourne, you'll want to choose a short term accommodation that is close to the city's most important attractions. Luckily, there are many options available. Whether you're looking for a place in the heart of the CBD or a quiet place near the suburbs, there are plenty of options to suit your needs.

Hotels provide a range of options for travellers, from affordable to luxury. You may even be able to book a hotel that has all the services you need, including room service. However, if you're planning to stay for a while, you might prefer an apartment that offers a little more space and privacy.

Astra Apartments is a serviced apartment company with 7 locations across Melbourne. These secure, residential buildings are designed to feel like homes, providing a comfortable, warm environment. Each location is managed by a dedicated team who meet guests upon arrival. The team will be happy to assist with any requests or concerns.

For those who aren't looking for hotel-style accommodations, there are also plenty of caravan parks and holiday cabins to choose from. Often, these are less expensive than hotel rooms, and are a convenient option for those who're moving to a new area.

Another option is to look for private landlords, who will usually offer fully furnished homes that have all the basic amenities. Many offer all the conveniences of a home, with the added benefit of being close to public transport and shops. Some offer additional services such as laundry, which can be very useful if you're staying for a long period.

If you're looking for short term accommodation East Melbourne in the heart of the CBD, you might consider Metro on Bank Place. This hotel has a great location and special rates. Additionally, it provides additional benefits such as valet laundry and pantry shopping services.

If you're looking for a more spacious, luxurious option, you might want to consider Albert Heights East Melbourne Serviced Apartments. These are located right on the edge of the city's central business district, offering easy access to the MCG, shopping, and the theatre district. They offer a choice of 39 period style suites, as well as air-conditioning, heating, a hairdryer, and complimentary in-house movies.

Arise the Eminence in Carlton is an ideal option for those who wish to enjoy the amenities of the city but not have to deal with the hassles of a large hotel. This boutique hotel has contemporary, spacious apartments that are just steps from the University of Melbourne and RMIT. Guests can also use the trams, which connect to the CBD.

Another great option for those who need a short-term place to stay is Park Avenue. This accommodation offers fully-serviced apartments, including a kitchen and free high-speed internet. In addition, these apartments are also conveniently located in Glen Waverley. Moreover, they are a short distance away from the Glen Shopping Centre and the popular Rosebud Beach.

You can also check out the serviced apartments in Melbourne's Docklands region. These include the Serviced Apartments Melbourne - Australia 108, a soaring 319 meters above the city.

Premium Disability Support Services is an NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) Service Provider based in Melbourne. We provide disability support services all across Melbourne. We support all individuals with disabilities to develop the skills and capabilities that they require to achieve independence and participate in society.

[limarieb]

it's so sweet knowing that you love me (though we don't need to say it to each other)

Pairing(s): Wanda Maximoff x fem!reader

Summary: You were born completely deaf, unable to fully learn how to read lips and constantly finding your hearing aids uncomfortable. On your venture for coffee, you find yourself overwhelmed (to the point of escape) when you are being spoken to by a (very pretty) woman who you cannot understand. Confusion and chaos arise on both ends. You return that same week, ready for the hateful confrontation that might take place. Fortunately, that "hateful" confrontation does not happen.

Warnings: none (a bit of angst, but then it's all fluff)

Word Count: 2.1k

Author's Note: this little collection of one-shots is still one of my favorite things to think about occasionally... perhaps i will consider making a third part if you give me some of your ideas on what the third part should consist of...

Main Masterlist | ao3 | Wattpad

Click Here for Part 2 to the 'Sweet' One-Shot Collection

...

From an early age, you realized that you were different from other people. When you would go to various places with your parents, random strangers always tried to talk to you. You couldn’t hear them, of course, considering the fact that you were born entirely deaf; adults and children alike never seem to understand that, though, and continued their quests of trying to get you to talk with your mouth rather than your hands.

Due to your innate inability to hear, you grew up learning sign language as your primary language. It wasn’t until you were four years old when you were lost in the supermarket, frantically trying to find your parents, that you realized the majority of people do not comprehend your language. Growing up in upstate New York, there weren’t exactly many people like you. There were not many people that felt ostracized by their community for something beyond their control, nor were there many individuals jumping at the opportunity to make accommodations for situations like yours. Thus, the most you were able to do in terms of communication was writing and reading in English and ‘speaking’ in sign language. Unlike some other people who were deaf, you were never able to learn how to read others’ lips, which frustrated you to no end.

And, honestly? It sucked. It was a lonely experience, and you spent many nights of your childhood (and adulthood) crying to your parents about it. It broke their hearts seeing their child experiencing such a cumbersome set of emotions and experiences that most do not even witness in a lifetime, and you knew they carried a pang of guilt about it all. You wish they didn’t, though, because you know it’s not their fault and that they have been trying their best to help you thrive despite your challenges. 

It wasn’t all bad, darkness, and negativity. In fact, there are many moments where you found your deafness as a sort of power or unique ability (instead of an inability). It allowed you to sense things differently. Your favorite way to decompress was feeling certain textures, especially the yarn blanket your mother made years ago, and putting on loud music so the vibrations would flow through the medium of the speakers and into your body via your fingers or your feet. Something about it all was therapeutic.

You received a pair of hearing aids as a child, but you did not necessarily prefer them. In circumstances where there were a lot of people in a given room, the sensations would become quite painful and confusing for your brain to untangle and compute all at once. Ergo, you only really use them on the occasion where you know prior that there were gonna be few people and low amounts of background noise, like when you are working one-on-one with a client.

Given that you were going to the local coffee place, you elected to leave hearing aids at home. You use your phone to place a mobile order, effectively removing the barrier of needing to talk to an employee to order. You walked into the shop and began your path towards the pick-up area. Reaching and sorting through the other orders, you eventually come to the realization that yours is not there. You figured that the staff was simply behind on crafting the drinks, so you wait for a few minutes.

As you anxiously played with your fingers, one of the employees approaches you. She was slightly taller than you, but she was also undeniably beautiful. Her long auburn hair was tied back, held in place by a mere tie. You caught a brief glance of her eyes, quickly noticing how green they were. In the presence of such a pretty lady, your anxiety began to rise. She gave a shy smile and began moving her lips to form words. Due to your overly anxious state and inability to read her lips, you rapidly became overwhelmed. You look behind her to see her coworkers behind the counter snickering at you two. Immediately, you assumed they were laughing solely at you, talking about how the only reasonable explanation for your lack of response was stupidity beyond any repair. 

So, you turned around and walked out of the door. You felt so embarrassed , more than you have ever felt since high school. All you wanted to do was go home and decompress.

Wanda stood there in a state of shock. One second, she was there trying to explain to you how she couldn’t make your drink because they were out of oat milk; the next, you were gone.

Did I say something wrong? Wanda thought to herself as she watched you escape her workplace.

Hanging her head in shame, she retreated to behind the counter where her coworkers, Bucky and Sam, were still laughing at her failed attempt to have a conversation with you. The brunette has watched you for a while from afar; she knew your favorite drink like the back of her hand, and she always tried to make sure your favorite spot in the corner of the café was kept neat and tidy for you. In her eyes, you were the most beautiful creature to walk on this planet. She would give up anything to know you as something more than just a customer.

Wanda let out a sigh of frustration mixed with sadness, leaning against the counter with her head in her hands. She finally broke the monotony of the undying laughter, “Would the two of you stop laughing? It’s not funny. Oh my god, that was so embarrassing.”

“Cheer up, little witch,” Bucky started. “There are more fish in the sea.”

“I don’t want other fish, though. I want her,” she tried to reason. “She’s so pretty, Bucky. And, after months, I finally worked up the courage to talk to her, and she just walked away from me.”

The latter part made Sam raise an eyebrow, “What do you mean she just walked away from you? Did you say something that could’ve upset her?”

“I don’t think so,” Wanda tried to think back. “I was just starting to explain how we were out of oat milk, so I couldn’t make her drink. But, before I could even give her some alternative choices, she just… left.”

Sam let out a hum, unsure of what exactly to reply. The three employees went back to work, yet Wanda was definitely not thinking about her encounter with you while making the various orders.

A few days had passed since the incident. Even though you vowed never to return to the coffee place (your favorite coffee joint), a conversation with your mother left you feeling more empowered and confident about it all. Her facial expressions and rapid hand motions displaying her anger at the workers forced a smile out of you. 

Thus, you decided that you were going to return to the coffee place the next morning. You repeated the same mobile order but decided to keep your phone in hand in case you needed to type something mean and vulgar at the employees who left you feeling humiliated the other day.

You grasp the handle and pull the door forward, granting yourself entry into the once comforting setting.

With a fleeting glance to the counter, your eyes briefly meet hers. It was too late to turn back now, so you cautiously walked to the familiar pick-up area. However, your drink seems to be missing again today. Great.

You look up to see the same woman from before warily approaching you, and it takes everything you have in your body to not flee the scene. Similar to the previous time she walked up to you, the girl began to speak again. She did not get very far before you opened the notes app on your phone and started to furiously type. By the expression on her face, you could tell she was surprised at the sudden action but waited for you to stop typing. 

After a minute passed, you finally turned the phone to show your message to the woman:

Hi, there. I’m deaf, and I don’t have hearing aids on at this moment. Anything that you’ve said, I did not hear… at all. 

You watched with patience as the other girl slowly and carefully skimmed the message. Her head tilted and her mouth opened to form an O-like shape, and you could pinpoint this moment with exact accuracy as the moment she realized that you were not (and were never) purposefully ignoring her — you couldn’t hear her; that’s why you must have left suddenly.

She shyly smiled and nodded towards your phone. With a quirked eyebrow, you offer it to her. She happily takes it from you to begin typing a message of her own:

Hi! I’m so sorry I didn’t realize before… I’m sure it must’ve been frustrating to just have someone talking AT you rather than WITH you. Is that why you left suddenly last time?

You weren’t really sure why you were surprised by her message, specifically the last part. Did she remember? After thinking for a few minutes, you form a reply:

Yeah, I guess… I was just very overwhelmed, and I saw some of the others laughing. I just felt bad, idk. So, I left.

You definitely did not expect the frown that appeared on her face when you walked in there today. She pointed to the phone, and you gave it to her once more. 

I’m sorry… if it makes you feel any better, they weren’t laughing at you or anything. Actually, they were laughing at me, not you.

As you read the new message, your face visibly contorted into confusion and disbelief.

What do you mean?

With the phone in her hands again, she typed: 

I’ve been wanting to talk to you for months, Y/N. The last time you were here, I finally tried to talk to you - at least about how we were out of oat milk for your drink. I guess they found you walking away without saying anything VERY comical. 

It was your turn to be in a complete and utter state of shock.

Oh… Wait, how do you know my name? 

She wrote her reply fairly quick: 

Who do you think makes your drink every time? ;)

As she passes the phone back to you, she personifies the wink in real life. Immediately, you feel the blood rush to your cheeks.

Well, I feel like it’s fair to ask for your name now - an 'eye for an eye’ type of thing.

She subconsciously bites her bottom lip as she slid the phone over with her reply:

Wanda. Wanda Maximoff.

Something about her name and connecting it to her made you feel… light. 

Well, Wanda, I’m here talking to you now, aren’t I? Why did you want to talk to me before? Am I that intimating?

It was her turn to fall victim to blushing, reading your questions regarding her apprehension of talking to you.

Intimidating? No, not really. Really pretty, though? Can neither confirm nor deny.

You released a small, quiet chuckle at her compliment; Wanda, on the other hand, has to remember for a second how to breathe because she heard you for the first time. She loved it, and she only wants to hear more. 

Give me your phone?

You sit there in confusion but comply with her unspoken request nonetheless. You give you her unlocked phone again, except you notice there’s no new message in your notes app conversation. You raise your eyebrow, showing you don’t really understand what just happened. Wanda, however, just winks at you again and slowly returns to her spot behind the counter. 

You never found out what she did at that moment on your phone until you receive a text a few minutes later from a foreign contact labeled “Wanda ;)”:

Wanda ;)  [9:47 AM]

Hey, sorry to cut our convo short - I had to help the customers. Meet me for dinner after work? 6 pm? :)

How could you say no to a request from her? You look up from your phone to see her biting her lip, hiding a smile as she makes drinks for other people. You look back down at your own device to respond:

You [9:48 AM]

I’ll be there. :)

You don’t remember being treated with such care and understanding before, especially by who was merely a stranger moments ago and has seemingly little experience with a person who is deaf. Wanda was different, though — a good different. She initiated a feeling of happiness and freedom within you that had not been experienced prior to that day. Most people did not consider trying to help you or finding different ways to talk to you, but Wanda did; moreover, she did so because she wanted to — she wanted to actually know you. 

It was increasingly evident that you were beyond infatuated with her. The night went so well, in fact, that you changed her contact from “Wanda ;)” to “Wanda <3” after you met her for your date that same evening.

End.

[mhcares]

NDIS Level 3 Support Coordination

Experience the difference with MHCS’s Specialised Support Coordination for NDIS. 

[ltwilliammowett]

The East India Company ships

The East and West India Company ships were not ship types in the usual sense. They were generic terms for a series of merchant ship types that travelled between Europe and the overseas colonies in the East and West. Common features of these ships were three masts, several cannons and a high bulwark to make it more difficult for attackers to board them. Their valuable cargo made the ships attractive targets, so they often travelled in convoys, accompanied by medium-armed merchant ships or frigates for protection. But let's go into more detail.

The East Indiaman 'Earl of Abergavenny', off Southsea, by Thomas Luny 1801

The ships of the East India Company were the ships of the English East India Company, a public limited company (shipowners at the early time of the East India Company contributed their ships to the company and received a certain share in the company in return. They received a proportionate share of the company's overall profits and received a dividend even if their own ship was lost, since the 18th century the company build their own ones as well.) which traded with Asia from 1600 to 1834. The company had a monopoly on trade with the East Indies, China and other regions, and its ships carried goods such as spices, tea, silk, cotton, porcelain and opium. The company also played an important role in the colonisation and administration of India and other territories.

East India Company ships at Deptford, by English School, c. 1660

The ships of the East India Company were known as East Indiamen or as Indiamen and were among the largest and most modern of their time. They were designed to withstand long voyages, carry heavy cargoes and defend themselves against pirates and enemy ships. They were also equipped with cannons and muskets and had a crew of sailors, soldiers, officers and passengers. Because of the need to carry heavy cannons, the hull of the East Indiamen - like most warships of the time - was much wider at the waterline than on the upper deck, so the guns on the upper deck were closer to the centreline to increase stability. This is known as a tumblehome. The ships usually had two complete decks for accommodation within the hull and a raised aft deck. The aft deck and the deck below were lit by galleries with square windows at the stern. To support the weight of the galleries, the hull lines were full towards the stern. As mentioned above, the ships were armed and painted to look like a warship and an attacker could not be sure if the embrasures were real or just painted, and some Indiamen carried a substantial armament.

Two views of an East Indiaman of the time of King William III, by Issac Sailmaker, 1685

The Royal Navy acquired several East Indiamen during the Napoleonic Wars and made them fourth rate ships (e.g. HMS Weymouth and HMS Madras), perpetuating the confusion of military ships with merchant vessels as prizes. In some cases, the East Indiamen successfully fended off attacks by the French. One of the most famous incidents occurred in 1804 when a fleet of East India ships and other merchant vessels under Commodore Nathaniel Dance successfully fought off a squadron commanded by Admiral Linois at the Battle of Pulo Aura in the Indian Ocean. And during this time, some of the ships were even travelling under the protection of a Letter of Marque, which allowed them to make their own prizes.

The East Indiaman 'Prince of Wales' disembarking troops off Gravesend, 1845, by John Lynn, 1845 or later - She was built by Green's of Blackwall in 1842 to a design known as that of the "Blackwall Frigates" - Indiamen with the single-decked appearance of frigates.

The ships of the India Companies were not only involved in trade, but also in exploration, diplomacy, warfare and scientific research. They visited many harbours and islands, built factories and forts, fought in battles and wars, negotiated treaties and alliances and collected samples and data. With the advent of the smaller and faster Blackwall Frigates in 1834 came the end of the great Indiamen as these small frigates sailed much faster.