Circles of Support
We all have people around us that can help and support us. But often they may not know how. They may not even know you need support. By bringing these people together, you can create an environment where you work together to achieve goals, address your needs, and connect and build relationships with those around you.
The term Circles of Support describes a group of people who come together with the intention of helping a person or family work towards dreams they would be otherwise unable to realise, and in doing so, achieve a better quality of life.
Our Circles of Support program builds support systems around families who are supporting a child or children with a disability. One of the barriers to a fulfilling family life is stress. If families are not offered support, this stress can increase to crisis point, lower resiliency and heighten the risk of family breakdown. Simply providing more paid respite hours does not provide a long term solution to existing stress on a family. Instead other strategies are needed in addition to paid supports.
Anyone can be a part of your circle: adults, older adults, people with disabilities, children, parents, and extended families. Participation is totally voluntary and each person offers and share in whichever way they feel most comfortable.
Our staff will work with you over several weeks or months to help you develop your Circle of Support.
We can assist by:
-
Helping you find and approach potential Circle members
-
Working with you and your Circle to plan goals
-
Help you and your Circle find creative solutions to issues
Remember, Circles are not just about planning and dealing with issues. They are about coming together to have fun and to celebrate achievements.
Our Circles of Support Program is complementary, not supplementary. Families who take part do not risk jeopardising existing or prospective sources of funding.
HOW DO I JOIN THE CIRCLES PROGRAM?
If you think you might like to establish a Circle of Support for yourself or a friend or a family member, then simply speak to your partnership worker if you are already receiving services, or contact the Circles of Support team on 1300 651 463. Our staff are always happy to assist you or provide more information about how the program might assist you. You do not need to be receiving funding from UnitingCare Community Options to access the Circles of Support program.
Download the Circles of Support brochure
DAMIEN'S STORY
Damien returned to his family home at 12 years of age after spending several years in institutional care. Once at home, Damien first attended a Special School and later an Adult Training Centre. One day though, Damine decided he didn't want to go anymore and preferred to watch television and listen to music at home.
After six years of this, Damien’s isolation really became apparent. His ageing mother underwent triple bi-pass surgery and Damien’s care fell to his father, who also cared for Damien's mother. Community Services unsuccessfully tried to involve Damien in community activities on several occasions but he felt threatened by professional service providers, fearing they would take him away from his home.
The reality was the opposite; the only way Damien could really remain at home would be to increase his independence, and not rely so heavily on his parents. He needed his own support network.
Mapping out Damien’s Circle of family and friends showed he had lost contact with many people. He re-connected with some of his friends who were more than happy to be a part of his Circle and is also extending his Circle, forging new friendships over regular lunches at a local venue. An initial support period has seen Damien’s confidence soar and he is now a recognised and accepted member at these gatherings.
Damien is also exploring using his Circle in his local community. His family have lived in the area for more than 50 years, are well known and respected. Damien is greeted often while at the local shops and participates in many conversations. Keen interest exists in forming a Circle of Support around Damien, with respect to work experience shared amongst local shop owners.
Damien’s lifestyle has done a complete turn-about, with his regular socialising and health benefits an added bonus. His parents have also benefited, and now know that when they can no longer care for Damien there are other people who will support him and care for his best interests.
Damien's story is by no means unique. A Circle of Support can make a big difference in your life. Call us to find out more.