Any social care provider – especially those offering semi independent living services, will understand the importance of keeping social care settings functioning, safe and friendly.
Young people and adults receiving care and support in the same house or setting can be difficult to control at the best of times. For that reason, it’s vital to keep everybody cooperating and
So, to help keep things in check, here are six ways to keep social care settings friendly, and productive.
1. Regular Tea & Coffee Breaks
Make it a point to facilitate tea and coffee time within the social care setting.
Set out some biscuits, sit down with the residents, and start a conversation. These informal meetings don’t need to be scheduled for specific times in the day or week, but making a habit of a tea break can really help build friendships within the living environment.
2. Play Games
Board games, card games, Chess, and all other similar activities are brilliant for creating a pleasant environment.
Ask the residents which games they would like to play, and try to get everybody involved. A simple game can turn into some good, productive fun, where residents can get to know each other a little better.
3. Group Outings
If the residents regularly take it upon themselves to go shopping or visit events, it may be a good idea to go as a group.
Supervised group outings to museums, sporting events, the cinema, and so on, will all work wonders when it comes to building friendships.
4. Movie Nights
Everybody loves a movie, but you don’t need to venture out in order to enjoy them.
Renting or buying some DVDs for the social care setting will enable you to sit everybody down to enjoy something – together. Ensure you buy or rent movies which everybody can enjoy. Asking about the resident’s favourite films beforehand will undoubtedly make this activity more worthwhile.
5. Take a Step Back
As a care worker, you may have the urge to oversee and supervise every aspect of the residents life. But that can be counter-productive when it comes to building friendships.
Allow residents to converse freely, make up their own activities, and enjoy each others company in a healthy manner. Don’t lose track of what they’re up to, but don’t become over-bearing either.
So there you have it, five great ways to help establish a friendly, positive atmosphere within almost any social care setting.
Do you have any tactics of your own? Share them in the comments secton below.
No Comments Yet