Support Circles: Empowering through teamwork and self-management

Support Circles is an inspiring project hosted by Ategi that brings together individuals with support needs to learn, grow, and support one another. Through careful planning and teamwork, these groups are not only enhancing their skills, but also building a strong community. Let's explore how these groups function, plan their trips, and learn from each other, with a spotlight on some key members and their stories. 

Understanding group dynamics 

The dynamic of each Support Circle is unique, with members collaborating closely to plan and execute their trips. This involves: 

• Location ideas: Exploring various destinations and choosing one that excites everyone. 

• Transport options: Deciding on the best way to get there and which mode of transport to use, often involving detailed planning for buses. 

• Daily essentials: Considering what they need to bring, like sunscreen and water, especially for longer days. 

By breaking down each day and discussing these aspects as a group, they essentially perform a risk assessment, ensuring everyone is prepared and comfortable. 

About the groups

When the groups are first getting to know one another they're given the chance chance to name their groups. At the moment we have 2 groups, "The Dreamers" and "The Happy Wanderers". We'll introduce to you to the different groups and the volunteers as we release more stories about Support Circles.

The Dreamers’ Trip to Tenby 

Recently, "the Dreamers" celebrated 6 months of being part of Support Circles, the group and planned a trip to Tenby to celebrate. This trip involved meticulous planning and collaboration, showcasing the skills they’ve developed. From transportation to daily essentials, the group worked together to ensure everything was covered. 

During this trip, Matthew presented the group with a six-month certificate, celebrating their journey and achievements. Taking a moment to mark milestones like this celebrates the progress made by individuals like Emma and Mark, who have grown in confidence and ability and the commitment shown from the group as a whole. 

Meet some of the Dreamers...

Emma: the food connoisseur

Emma, who has mild support needs and anxiety, is a great example of the progress Support Circles volunteers can make. Initially shy and reluctant to engage, she now confidently participates in group discussions. Emma's love for food, particularly chocolate biscuits, often guides Matthew's (the project lead) snack choices, ensuring everyone feels considered. 

Her commitment to early trips, despite not being a morning person, and her increasing confidence in letting the group know what she likes and prefers, especially when talking about food and locations, show how far she has come. The group’s willingness to support her, like slowing down to match her pace as she has mobility issues, shows how caring and nurturing the community is within Support Circles. 

Mark: The transport guy 

Mark, who is autistic, brings a unique set of skills and challenges. Supported by Ategi's Community Support team for many years, Mark is very capable but also needs support in different ways. He enjoys helping to organise the transport for the trips they take.  He loves a long journey, so likes to sneak in a long bus ride sometimes, which just goes to show how much he enjoys spending time with his fellow volunteers. Mark is a confident tech guy and likes ensuring that travel plans are well-thought-out. 

Matthew: The guiding hand 

Matthew, the project lead, plays a crucial role in this process. His job is to understand each member as an individual, spotting signs of discomfort and building consistency in their routines, from timings to venue choices. The sessions whilst lead by Matthew are strongly rooted in co-production, the volunteers drive conversations, choose the locations they want to visit and decide what skills and projects they want to get involved in.      

Matthew’s approach to supporting the group is person-centered, whilst he works to keep harmony, he also must have laser focus on them as individuals. During the sessions, from his years of experience as a support worker as well as a Shared Lives Coordinator at Ategi, he is able to quickly recognise red flags and when people might be struggling or having a low day. He has different techniques to support them in the group, Matthew will gently take focus off that person, make a question easier to answer or subtly check in with them when the group is busy.   

Building skills and confidence 

Support Circles are not just about planning trips; they’re about learning essential life skills. Members learn self-management by getting to meetings on time and group management by supporting each other. Matthew’s guidance helps them navigate challenges, whether it’s rephrasing questions to make them more accessible or recognising when someone needs a break. 

The friendship and support in the group are clear. While disagreements happen, members like Lee and Stephen, who act as peacekeepers, make sure conflicts are resolved peacefully. This caring environment allows everyone, including Emma and Mark, to thrive.

Support Circles show the power of community and teamwork. With careful planning, empathy, and mutual support, members are not only planning successful trips but also building trust and confidence. Stories like Emma’s and Mark’s inspire us to see the potential in everyone and the amazing results of working together.

Could you benefit from becoming a volunteer in one of our Support Circles? If you live in Cardiff and have a support need, then contact us to find out more.

Contact us here

 

 

 

The Dreamers getting their 6 month certificate with Project Lead, Matthew

Looking out over the water at Tenby.

The group walking into Tenby with Sheleagh our Fundraising Manager.

Could you benefit from becoming a volunteer in one of our Support Circles? If you live in Cardiff and have a support need, then contact us to find out more.

Contact us here