AFG creates community circles to help people with dementia in Rochdale
Date published: 04 October 2014
Cath Barton, community circles connector, Alternative Futures Group
North West charity Alternative Futures Group (AFG) is taking a lead in the region by adopting a new community approach to help people with dementia and learning disabilities.
AFG is the first provider to invest in a full time community circles connector who has already made a difference to people in Rochdale living with dementia by helping develop circles of support.
A community circle is a way to support someone through bringing together friends, family and neighbours with a facilitator. A circle can start with two people or several people coming together with a clear purpose before agreeing what the circle can do that will make a difference.
Cath Barton is an experienced trainer and facilitator who prior to joining AFG was an adviser for national charity MacIntyre in all areas of person centred approaches.
She said: “I’m passionate about developing person centred approaches which support people to live the lives they want.
“Circles intentionally build community around a person and help to build relationships and connections with others. Through conversations, supported by a facilitator, a positive difference can be achieved.”
Carol Toner, community service director said: “We are extremely proud in developing the relationship between Alternative Futures Group and Community Circles. We are looking forward to seeing the very real difference having a circle makes in people’s lives”.
Alternative Futures Group was recently shortlisted in this year’s Charity Times Awards for Charity of the Year, with the result being announced in October.
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