Over time I feel we have developed a special bond which others notice and often when I come to work, my colleagues will say that Norma has been asking about me. The feeling is reciprocated as Norma and I really enjoy each others company.
Using the facilitation skills has definitely helped Norma and I develop our relationship. I realise looking back that I have been using these from the beginning but at the time did not identify them as facilitation skills, it was just what I did. By being attentive, observing, listening and spending time with Norma I have come to understand her dreams and aspirations and how best to support her. This is something I am able to reflect in her support plan and share with the rest of the staff team.
My main aim has been to support Norma in every aspect of her life by being creative, caring and warm to support her as she grows older and with changes in her life. Norma loves to sing and dance – I always respond to this when she initiates it and we have a great time listening to Elvis and songs from the war years.
Norma can sometimes seem reluctant to get involved or spend time with people but I have found that by asking in a more subtle way or phrasing things differently she will often engage. Although Norma talks she will often respond to objects as well as speech to make choices. She also has special names for other things as well as people and it is important we know what all of these mean to understand what she is telling us.
As I continue to support Norma, I’m sure I’ll develop my skills further, and our relationship will continue to sparkle.
Ingrid Elms
Support Worker
Whethampstead