It is always heart-warming to see MacIntyre’s Philosophy and the MacIntyre Promises in action through the use of the ten facilitation skills and Great Interactions.
Anthony is a 36 year old man. He has good receptive communication, although he has limited verbal communication. He is able to say a few words and will use a few Makaton signs. Anthony loves to have fun.
On Monday I normally support a group to go out to play pool at the local bowling alley. This particular day I was scheduled to support colleagues to complete the Great Interactions modules on their e-learning so a colleague was to take my place.
My colleague who also normally supports the group asked everyone if they were ready to leave. Anthony came over and walked around the table and sat at the side of me. I said to Anthony that I wasn’t going to pool today and asked if he was ready to go. Anthony said “no”. I then asked Anthony again if he wanted to go to pool and Anthony firmly replied “no”. I then mentioned to Anthony the name of the other staff member who was supporting the group this day, but again Anthony said “no”.
I looked at Anthony closely and noticed the subtle changes in his face and tone of voice, so I then asked him if he would like to go to pool if I went too. Anthony got very excited, said “yes”, stood up and went to get his coat.
I then spoke to my manager who agreed that I should rearrange my time to support my colleagues for another day and that I should support Anthony to pool.
This really is an example of a person we support being listened to, supported in a way they wish to be supported, and learning to have increased choice and control in order to have a life that makes sense to him.
Helen McMahon
Learning Support Worker
Chesterfield