17th August 2023
Earlier this year Bolton Cares Supported Living services set up monthly forums for the people we support.
The idea behind the forums was for them to have a say on the way their care is delivered. Also, to let us know the kinds of activities they wanted to take part in.
Overall the forum aims to get people out and about more, get fresh ideas and plan new activities which promote friendships and connections.
Our first forum was held in April. We asked the people we support what they wanted to do and what their aspirations were. From the feedback, we planned a number of days out to the Trafford Centre as some of the people had never been. Also to Blackpool and see the sea.
The second forum followed a Coronation theme in May. Here we asked whether the people we support would like to take part in a drama group to film clips of what good and bad support looks and feels like. We also named the people we support newsletter ‘Moments to Cherish’. A showcase for the amazing work we do as a company with the people we support.
A BBQ summer party was held for the third forum. At this forum the people we support met our head office managers. Sanjeet our Managing Director and Ange our Head of People attended. Service Managers and Registered Manager Sara also came along. It was a fun and wet afternoon and the people we support enjoying throwing sponges at their manager.
The next forum for September is around health and we have a number of special guests booked to come and tell us about the range of activities we can get involved in. This will be followed in October by a Halloween party.
So far, the forums are having a really positive impact on Supported Living services. So far, they have resulted in:
- Two brothers rekindling their relationship. They are now attending birthday parties together and plan to have regular meet ups.
- Old friends reuniting
- The people we support proactively leading and coproducing their own activities. DJ by Anthony (DJ Stinky feet) playing his tunes and Chris running a game of play your cards right.
- One individual took a shine to playing pool and has purchased a pool table for his home.
Sara Collins Registered Manager for Supported Living said.
“The People We Support Forums are a great way to really involve people in shaping their own care and giving them more of a say on the kinds of activities they want to do. They are also a great example of our person centred care in action. Through them we are also helping to fulfil The Bolton Cares mission, to support people to live the life they want their way.
So far, they are going really well. We’ve had some amazing, fun ideas for forthcoming activities and days out and discovered hidden talents among the people we support, which we’re nurturing.”