Support Networks Flashcards
What is a support network?
A support network is a group of people that an individual who requires care and support can rely on to ensure their rights and needs are met and they are treated with respect, dignity and equality. They might provide advice, information or practical support
What is the purpose of an advocate?
Individuals may require an advocate if they are unable to make decisions about their care for themselves
For what reasons might someone not be able to make their own decisions about their care and treatment?
- Their age (young children may not understand the options available)
- If they have learning or physical disabilities
- If they have a condition like Alheimer’s disease which affects their memory
- If they lack mental capacity due to a mental health issue
Why do independent organisations provide advocacy when friends an family of the individual can act as an advocate?
An individual’s friends, family or carers could act as an advocate for them in care meetings, etc. However, it is difficult for family members to remain impartial so other independent organisations are available to provide advocacy
How can an advocate support an individual?
- Go to meetings with an individual to help them express their views and wishes
- Help them find or access information
- Write letters on the individual’s behalf
- Help them apply for disability benefits, etc.
- Speak on their behalf in case conferences or care plan meetings
What will an advocate not do?
- An advocate will not judge the individual
- The advocate will not give their own personal opinion (they must be independent)
- They will not make decisions for the individual or assume they know what decision is best for them
What are some examples of organisations that provide advocacy?
- MIND
- POhWER
- VoiceAbility
- The Advocacy People (formerly called SEAP)
These charities are recommended by the NHS but are independent organisations who ensure that decisions are made in the best interests of the individual
What are support groups?
Apart from providing advocacy services, charities and other organisations can provide support for individuals and their families. They help individuals to take back control of their lives when they have, or are caring for an individual with an illness, long-term health condition or a disability.
These support groups can take place in person or online and allow individuals to meet and share information, advice, encouragement and comfort, as well as strategies that have helped them cope with their situation. It gives them a chance to talk to others who understand their situation because they have experienced it themselves.
SUPPORT GROUP: Mind
What support does this organisation provide?
Provide online peer support groups for individuals with mental health issues as well as running local support groups where they can meet up and take part in activities and exercise classes, etc. Also provide lots of information and advice about different mental health issues and their treatment, housing, counselling services, etc.
SUPPORT GROUP: Mencap
What support does this organisation provide?
Provide support for individuals with learning disabilities. This includes advice and support about employment, housing, benefits, relationships, etc. Local support groups or Network Partners so individuals can share their experiences with others about living with learning disabilities.
SUPPORT GROUP: ageUK
What support does this organisation provide?
Provide information and advice to elderly people such as end of life planning, healthy living, finding and arranging social care. Run day centres so elderly people can go along and socialise with others and do activities such as gentle exercise, quizzes, arts and crafts, or go on day trips. Befriending service so elderly people don’t get lonely
SUPPORT GROUP: Macmillan cancer support
What support does this organisation provide?
Provide support for individuals who have cancer and their families. There is an online community where individuals can share their experiences about living with cancer and how it has affected them/get advice from others who have experienced it. Can also provide respite for carers of those living with cancer.
SUPPORT GROUP: National autistic society
What support does this organisation provide?
Run local support groups for individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Day centres for adults or children with autism where they can take part in different activities.
What is informal support?
Although these organisations are available to provide care and support, a lot of the day to day care for many vulnerable individuals is provided by people who are not professionally trained care workers and who are not paid to do so - e.g. family, friends and neighbours. This kind of care is vital in helping these individuals maintain their independence
CASE STUDY:
Doris is 94 years old and lives in her house on her own. Her daughter lives close by and visits her every day. As Doris is unable to drive, what daily living tasks could her daughter help her with?
What informal support could her daughter provide?
- Helping her with shopping for items she needs
- Helping her to get dressed and washed in the mornings
- Helping by preparing meals for her
- Driving her to the GP or the pharmacy to pick up her prescriptions
- Helping by cleaning around the house
- Just being around as someone for Doris to talk to and have social contact
