1. Neighbourhood Networks
Policy In Partners
2018

2. Neighbourhood Networks
Facilitated peer support services for vulnerable adults to sustain safe independent living within their communities in Scotland since 2001
Modelled on the principles and practices of sister organisation ‘Keyring’ – who 30 years ago pioneered the model of Living support networks to enable people labelled with learning difficulties to live in their own homes

3. Who do we work with?
Historically we have facilitated networks for adults with learning disabilities.
In recent years the network model has also been further developed to work with other vulnerable people (16 and over) including people experiencing poor mental health, transitions and people with physical disabilities.
We are interested in developing inclusive networks – not label specific - A test of change pilot through SDS creates an opportunity for this.
This is why we are here today to develop

4. What do we do? Facilitate Peer Support Networks with a focus on:
- Housing support
- Community Connecting/Active Citizenship

5. What does that mean?
Peer support – Helping network members to use their skills to help themselves and others – Reciprocity builds confidence and self esteem.
Housing Support – Supporting people to maintain their tenancies eg understanding tenancies and understanding their responsibilities as a tenant and ensuring their home is not at risk
Community Connecting/Active Citizenship – Identify opportunities for people to be involved in community life, activities, volunteering and employment etc –all must be in line with members own aspirations

6. Outcomes Focussed Support
Every ‘Member’ is supported by the CLW and Network Manager to develop their own personal Support Plan, the ‘Planning Wheel’ We focus on the following 8 areas
Independent travel
Money management
Life Skills
Health and Wellbeing
Natural friendships/relationships
Employment / volunteering
Confidence & esteem
Community participation

7. Principles people can do lots of things for themselves
people can support each other
people get support when they need it and not when they don’t
people don’t need specialist services for all their needs
people should aspire to their own home within the community

8. The Model
Community Based –removes barriers to people becoming active citizens
Network of 9-12 people living close by
Community Living Worker employed 16 hours and must live locally
CLW must be professionals and neighbours

9. Support & Facilitation
Time - negotiated between members and worker
(No shift pattern, at least weekly contact)
Flexible - provided at different times of day/eve weekend - depending on members’ needs
Members led – Developing members skills in active citizenship
The network provides opportunities for personal development
Members are encouraged to support one another

10. Because we live there too
Support levels can be increased at short notice to meet crises as they occur
Social isolation and all associated risks can be prevented with a small amount of local support
Our workers are well connected and tap into local resources and encourage natural support to develop positive networks.
They are also familiar with more local but formal services if needed.

11. Our Partners Where we are we now……………...
11 Networks in North Lanarkshire
2 Networks in Glasgow
3 Networks in West Dumbarton
1 Network in East Ayrshire
2 Networks in East Renfrewshire
2 Networks in East Lothian
2 Networks in Midlothian

12. Evidence Based Practice
External Evaluation material – Quality Checker and Outside the Box
Annual Care Inspection –
Care and Support -6
Management and leadership – 6 (2017)
Care Inspectorate Hub - Innovative Practice.

13. Cost? Varied- Depending on the locality
Some local authorities have invested in Neighbourhood Networks as a preventative service- No charge
Others- Will look at peoples personal budgets and levy a charge

14. Preventative Support
It is less costly than other forms of support. Experience in preventing, reducing or delaying the need for more intensive traditional support.
It’s like a gym membership ‘the more you put in, the more you get out’

15. Practical Support
Clw/NM have helped us to access funding to do various activities e.g cooking, going glamping.
I got help to report a hate crime involving my brother even though he’s not in the network.
Clw helped me to buy, set up and tune in my new television.
The Clw helped me to measure carpets, windows and to buy new furniture for my new flat e.g bed, wardrobe, carpets, washing machine.
The Clw helped me to learn how to use my mobile phone. I can now call my sister independently.
The Clw/NM talk to us and help us sort out problems with our friends.
Clw helped me to plan an event to celebrate my birthday.
Clw is there to talk to me by text if I am anxious or worried.
I am getting help to remove old furniture from my home.

16. Member Involvement HELEN RAWLINGS

18. Thank you
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