Disability services in the Newcastle and the Hunter have entered a new chapter, with Delando Corporation becoming part of Castle Personnel.
In May this year, our Boards agreed to merge our organisations, combining our shared values, strengths and over a century of combined experience, so we can protect and diversify the services our participants rely on.
The historic Delando Street site in Waratah, home to Delando Corporation for 75 years, is now known as Castle's Delando Hub. The Hub will continue delivering Delando's one-on-one and group NDIS supports and supported employment programs, with participants also getting access to Castle's broader NDIS supports and Disability Employment Services (becoming Inclusive Employment Australia from 1 November).
Pictured above: Delando's former Board members with Delando staff and participants, and Castle's Board and staff, at the Delando Hub launch.
Former Delando Chair, Lawrence Caelli, says the Hub's history and heart will continue to be part of Castle:
"Delando has always been a deeply personal space for my family and many others, with my mother having been one of the founding members and my sister one of Delando's first participants. For 75 years, it's been a place of care and community, and we're proud to join with a like-minded partner in Castle who shares our values." - Lawrence Caelli
The partnership is built on similar beginnings. Both organisations were started by local families to fill gaps where services didn't exist. Castle Board Chair, Jenny Potter, says this shared foundation makes the future stronger:
"With almost 35 years behind Castle and 75 behind Delando, this is a partnership built on experience. Most importantly, it ensures we can keep delivering participant-centred, high-quality services for many years to come."
Castle CEO, Brad Webb, says the acquisition will give participants more choice, pathways and support:
"By coming together, we can offer a more comprehensive range of services, like an employment ecosystem that includes job readiness, and supported and open employment options. Together, we'll keep supporting people with disability to pursue their goals and live fulfilling lives."
Today, the Delando Hub launch brought together participants, families, staff and Board members to celebrate the beginning of this partnership. The event marked a formal passing of the baton from the outgoing Delando Board to Castle's leadership - and a shared commitment to a stronger future together.