We spent a productive morning at the allotment, where everyone pitched in to plant the remaining main crop potatoes, cauliflower, and cabbages. After our hard work, we headed to Enablement Care for a delicious lunch of cottage pie and raspberry crumble, lovingly prepared by Janet. Many thanks to Cayton for his dedication and hard work with the group.
Special recognition goes to April B. for her amazing job weeding and planting the cauliflower and cabbage plants. Keep up the great work, April!
We had a delightful day at Newstead Abbey, with perfect weather and just the right temperatures. Unlike our usual A-to-B walks, today’s stroll was leisurely and unstructured, allowing us to truly appreciate the beauty around us. We soaked in the vibrant colours, captivating smells, and rich history of the surroundings. Even the most anxious members of our group were beaming with smiles and appeared quite relaxed as we explored!
As always, we concluded our adventure at the teashop, where we enjoyed our packed lunches alongside tea, coffee, and delicious cakes – with some of us indulging in seconds. It was a 10/10 day!
Please save the date for our Summer Fair at Enablement Care!
If you are interested in having a stall at this event, please contact info@challengect.co.uk.
Mental health concerns everyone, from young children to adults, and encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. The way we think, feel, and behave in daily life is intricately linked to our mental health. Yet, despite its importance, mental health often carries a stigma that prevents many from seeking help.
Mental Health Awareness Week is vital because it:
Raises Awareness: It helps to break down societal stigmas and encourages open conversations about mental health.
Promotes Education: The week is an opportunity to spread knowledge about mental health issues and the available support systems.
Encourages Support: By highlighting resources and sharing stories, the week fosters a supportive community for those affected by mental health issues.
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Week, here are some small, practical steps you can take to improve and maintain your mental health:
While taking care of your mental health, encourage others to do the same. Share what you learn about mental health, offer a listening ear to friends and family, and promote mental health resources in your community.
You can find out more from the Mental Health Foundation by clicking here.
Again, massive CONGRATULATIONS to Catherine, community support worker and Melissa, night care worker, who celebrated their achievements on the 1st of May 2024.
Catherine, your colleagues said that you were committed to the people you support, nothing is too much trouble, you always strive to make sure that goals and outcomes are achieved.
Melissa, your colleagues said you were an all rounder, you lead a shift as a shift lead should, you have the residents best interest at the heart of what you do.
We are proud to have you on the team!
Recently, our Walking Club embarked on a circular journey, combining parts of the Trans Pennine Trail and the Cuckoo Way, covering about five miles. Despite the intermittent showers that accompanied us for most of the walk, the spirits of our group remained undampened. Indeed, the weather seemed to appreciate our resilience, rewarding us with some sunshine as we neared the end of our trek.
After enjoying the fresh air and scenic views, we made our way to the cosy retreat of the Hollinwood Hub Cafe. The warm ambience of the cafe was a perfect match for our chilled bones. Over steaming cups of coffee, we shared laughs and stories, the perfect complement to the hearty slices of cake that followed. In a moment of indulgence, one of our members even enjoyed a second helping of cake, a testament to the cafe’s delicious offerings!
The community hub open day was a lovely, successful event. Throughout the day, we engaged collaboratively with attendees to discuss their preferences for the services provided at the hub. This interaction offered valuable insights and fostered a shared vision for future projects.
We were also pleased to generate ideas for the upcoming summer fair in July. This promises to be an exciting opportunity for further community involvement and enjoyment.
Feedback from the participants was overwhelmingly positive. They appreciated the calming atmosphere of the hub and expressed enthusiasm for the new projects. Many are looking forward to regular meet-ups, and they valued having a welcoming space available during times of anxiety.
The hub will be open on Wednesdays from the 8th of May 2024.
Thank you to all who attended the staff meetings at the back end of last month.
During this time, you were all asked to nominate a staff member who you felt deserved a special mention for their commitment to the people we support, dedication to the company and an overall team player.
We can now share with you all that the votes have been counted, and it was inspirational to read the words you all said about one another.
It was a close vote!
A big CONGRATULATIONS to Catherine, community support worker and Melissa, night care worker. Your colleagues had wonderful words to say about you, and we, as a management team, can say the same.
Catherine, your colleagues said that you were committed to the people you support, nothing is too much trouble, you always strive to make sure that goals and outcomes are achieved.
Melissa, your colleagues said you were an all rounder, you lead a shift as a shift lead should, you have the residents best interest at the heart of what you do.
Congratulations to you both!
Please come to the office on Wednesday 1st May at 645pm to celebrate your achievements.
Introduction and Role Overview
As a Life Skills Facilitator within CET, I am dedicated to empowering service users within the community and residential care settings to lead fulfilled lives by developing essential life skills. My role encompasses guiding individuals to acquire the ten essential life skills as outlined by the World Health Organisation: critical thinking, creative thinking, decision-making, problem-solving, effective communication, interpersonal relationship skills, self-awareness, empathy, coping with emotions, and coping with stress.
By fostering the acquisition of these skills, I aim to support individuals in building confidence, fostering independence, and enhancing their overall well-being. Through personalised interventions and a person-centred approach, I collaborate with each individual to identify their unique needs and strengths, tailoring my support to ensure it connects with and benefits them on their journey toward personal growth and development.
Passion and Motivation
What fuels your passion for aiding individuals in developing life skills? Was there a pivotal moment or influence directing you towards this field?
“Witnessing individuals achieve what they once thought was impossible ignites my passion for aiding individuals with various diagnoses in developing life skills. Seeing their faces light up with joy as they overcome challenges and achieve milestones is incredibly rewarding. This drive was further solidified through personal experiences and a deep-seated belief in the potential of every individual to thrive.”
Challenges and Rewards
Could you discuss some of these challenges and how you address them? What are the most rewarding parts of your work?
“Challenges often arise in helping individuals with various diagnoses navigate social interactions, build confidence, and overcome barriers to learning. However, witnessing their growth, development, and increased confidence is immensely rewarding. Additionally, observing the joy and satisfaction on their faces as they achieve their goals reinforces the importance and impact of my work.”
Personalised Approach
Each individual has unique needs and strengths. How do you tailor your approach to life skills to ensure it connects with and benefits each person you work with?
“I leverage various methodologies to break down complex skills into manageable steps, utilise strengths, and create inclusive learning environments. This ensures that each individual receives personalised support that resonates with their needs and effectively promotes their growth and development.”
Success Stories
Could you share a memorable success story highlighting the positive impact of life skills education on an individual with additional needs?
“One memorable success story involved a young man with autism who initially struggled with anxiety and social interaction. Through targeted interventions he gained confidence and developed leadership skills. Witnessing his transformation from struggling with anxiety to confidently engaging with others and taking on leadership roles was truly inspiring. This success underscores the importance of personalised support and the potential for individual growth.”
Advice for Other
What advice would you offer to educators, caregivers, or professionals who wish to support the life skills development of individuals with various diagnoses?
“Be patient, empathetic, and persistent. Take the time to understand their unique perspectives, leverage their strengths, and utilise evidence-based methodologies to promote their growth and development. Most importantly, approach your work with optimism and positivity, as your attitude can greatly influence their learning experience and overall well-being.”
We are so proud of our staff; here’s a snippet of what they said about each other in our Person-Centred Awards!
