A circle of support is shaped by the focus person, but in general has the following characteristics:
- The circle consists of people in the focus person’s life and volunteers;
- The circle aims to support the focus person and their family to manage challenges and transitions in their life;
- The circle helps the focus person to achieve their goals, try new hobbies, and to make meaningful social connections;
- The circle is person-centred, and the focus person’s voice and needs are paramount;
- The focus person’s family may or may not be circle members, but they contribute to the focus person’s plan and are liaised with by the Equal Futures team;
- An Equal Futures Project Coordinator organises and attends circle meetings.
Types of circles of support:
There are two types of circles of support: ‘Smart circles‘ and ‘Self-sustaining circles‘.
Find out more about the different types of circles of support.