With this in mind, coming to work on one of our recent snow covered afternoons, I was very aware that few staff could get in and, worse still, no one would be able to go out.
I arrived to find Susan and Sheena at the dining table, Sheena supporting Susan to use the laptop and look at potential holiday destinations. The two of them were deep in conversation about holidays of the past, Susan telling Sheena about happy times with her family. Susan suddenly announced that, as a child, she had loved watching ‘Watch with Mother’, particularly ‘Bill and Ben.’
With the wonders of modern technology to hand, Sheena went to ‘You Tube’ and within seconds had found a 1965 episode of ‘Bill and Ben’.
No sooner had the music started than Michael put his head round the door. Sheena waved him in, made room for him and he sat, watching. As if lured by familiar sounds Billy C and Billy S appeared. They came in and sat down too. Within minutes they were all engrossed, personal differences were put aside and they were joking with each other about who sounded like Bill or Ben or Little Weed.
They all chipped in about how they had watched it as children, where they were, who they were with.
The beauty of it was that Sheena’s interactions were so subtle. She listened, laughed and observed without being over bearing. Sheena supported the four people to share a common experience and enjoy each other’s company. Her relaxed nature and facilitative approach ensured this spontaneous activity was a success for everyone.
I’m not prone to bouts of sentimentality, but for me it was a very special moment.
Clare Daly,
Head of Service, 3 and 4 Crosby Close