Spotlight...
Spotlight...
21.07.09
In the first of a new series of spotlight features, we bring you stories from around the regions showcasing the good work, achievements and ideas coming from Caring with Confidence Providers in reaching out to carers in their area.
Helen Wilson is the Caring with Confidence Project Manager based at Carers’ Support Centre in Brigg, North Lincolnshire. Helen and the team are providing the Caring with Confidence programme to carers across the county and has hit on a successful way to get the Caring with Confidence message out there – which she puts down to putting a ‘face’ to the programme!
Identifying a friendly name within the social service teams for Older People, Learning Disabilities, Physical Disabilities and Children's Services, Helen has managed to secure short slots in their fortnightly team meetings to tell them about Caring with Confidence.
Helen said: “It’s taken a lot of hitting the phones and trying to find the right people to talk to, persuading them to let me come and speak to their teams. There’s sometimes been a bit of cynicism and LOTS of questions about why and how Caring with Confidence can make a difference. But the secret to getting these very important frontline workers engaged and on board with Caring with Confidence has been taking the personal approach.
“Putting a ‘face’ to the programme and getting out there and meeting people has been key in really getting the message across to these very busy and hardworking people. At the end of the day, they’re the ones coming into direct contact with carers and able to put them in touch with the right support so it’s vital that they are able to spread the word for us.”
Helen’s started to reap the benefits of her hard work as carers begin to get in touch and book onto sessions and she plans to explore further ideas with her newfound referrers to ensure as many carers in North Lincolnshire have access to the programme.