Deborah's story
Deborah has had a circle of support for three years. The members of her circle are the people who are really important to her and include her mum, sister and brother-in-law, a close friend she has known for over 25 years, an aunt, family friends and her beautician.
Deborah's key worker from the house she lives in is also a member.
Deborah's mum and sister heard about circles of support when the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities were commissioned by their local authority to work with families with an aim to set up their own circles of support.
The group meet every four to six months at Deborah's mother's house and the focus is on having fun. They start off with a fish and chip supper, before moving on to reviewing the goals set at the last meeting and making plans based on what Deborah's dreams are for the next year or so. Deborah now chair's the meetings and dictates when they should move on to new agenda items or when she needs a break.
Some of her dreams that have been achieved during the past three years of having an active circle include:
- going on holiday to Scotland
- seeing Rod Stewart at the O2 arena
- visiting Windsor Castle.
One of the circle of support's greatest achievements was when they pulled together to achieve Deborah's dream of having a pink themed 50th birthday party. Her aunt made a beautiful cake, her beautician did her hair and make-up, another member booked the venue, her mother and sister organised the whole party and her brother-in-law bought pink champagne!
Deborah is very settled with her life at the moment so there is no need for the circle to support her to make big changes in her life. The focus of her circle at the moment is to ensure she continues to lead an active life and maintain contact with all her friends. The members have also thought about the part they play in Deborah's life.
For example, Donna the beautician said that whatever happens in the future, she will always make sure that Deborah has her monthly pampering session. Another friend Ruth, now meets Deborah monthly for a drink and a bite to eat on her way home from work.
