Personal support networks are an important aspect of planning for a safe and secure future for people with disabilities. A network is a group of people who care about a person to the extent that they will commit to being involved in the person’s life on a regular basis.
Networks of support can play many different roles, including the following:
- Help the person and the family to make decisions and plans for the future;
- Make sure that the person’s voice is heard;
- Provide companionship, enter into a relationship and have fun;
- Provide practical support;
- Help manage supports and money; and
- Advocate with service systems and address issues that may arise.
Social Inclusion facilitators help with establishing and maintaining a personal support networks for individuals with an intellectual disability who are A) living with a senior parent and/or B) planning to move into a home of their own. Social Inclusion Facilitators do this by:
- Inviting prospective network members;
- Facilitating (taking notes, arranging transportation, prepare and organize an agenda) network meetings;
- Identifying roles for people in the network; and
- Keeping the network going well into the Future.
