Topic 1 | "I, Unique and Valuable" | ACE-ES Romania |
Topic 2 | "My rights, your rights - Communication and tolerance" | NCDP |
Topic 3 | "Dialogue&participation in decisions, without barriers!" | FAR |
Topic 4 | ”Me and community! My involvement, my civic contribution” | NCDP |
Topic 5 | ”Lifestyle, health, exercise and food” | CESUR |
Topic 6 | ”Waste and environmental protection” | FAR |
Topic 7 | ”Different but together - diversity, inclusion, cohesion” | ACE-ES Romania |
Topic 8 | ”Creative and Digital!” | CESUR |
Definition of Inclusion Support Circle with YWwD – What is an Inclusion Support Circle and Who is in an Inclusion Support Circle
Support circles for people with disabilities are an informal way of providing emotional and practical support to disabled people by connecting them with a network of supportive individuals.
They are often created by disabled people themselves, or by other disability activists and organizations, and act as a way of providing disabled people with access to a network of support from their peers. Support circles are typically organized around specific themes such as physical health, mental health, social activities, or employment.
The members of the support circle will meet regularly to discuss their shared experiences, share advice, and provide emotional and practical support to each other. Support circles often also organize events and activities that are accessible to all members of the circle.
The purpose of the support circle is to create a safe space where people with disabilities can come together to share their experiences, provide emotional and practical support to each other, and access resources and advice that can help them navigate life with a disability. We want to create an atmosphere of understanding and acceptance, where everyone can feel comfortable to openly talk about their needs and challenges. We want to empower each other to live our best lives, and to provide each other with the support we need to do so.
Who is in an Inclusion Support Circle?
An inclusion support circle typically consists of people with disabilities, family members, caregivers, and allies. Additionally, there may be members of the community and representatives of local organizations who are involved in the support circle.
The goal of the inclusion support circle is to create a safe and inclusive environment where everyone can share their experiences, provide support to each other, and access resources and advice that can help them navigate life with a disability.
What new PWD support circles bring to the world?
PWD support circles bring a sense of community, understanding, and acceptance to the world. They provide a safe space for people with disabilities to share their struggles and successes, to access resources and advice, and to connect with peers who can relate to and support them. Through these circles, disabled people can access the emotional and practical support they need to navigate life with a disability.
Additionally, these circles can help to raise awareness of disability issues, and to advocate for the rights of disabled people. Finally, by creating an inclusive and empowering space, PWD support circles can help to create a more equitable and just world for everyone.
How can a disabled person objectively assess the discrimination?
A disabled person can objectively assess discrimination by paying attention to how they are being treated in comparison to others. Are they being treated differently than someone who does not have a disability? Are they being excluded from activities or opportunities that are available to others? Are they being denied access to resources, services, or accommodations? Are they facing additional barriers in their day-to-day lives that other people do not have to face? Paying attention to these patterns of discrimination can help a disabled person assess the level of discrimination they are experiencing.
Additionally, seeking out resources or organizations that can provide further information on disability rights and discrimination can also be helpful.
Do you think that a young woman with disabilities is doubly discriminated against?
Young women with disabilities are often doubly discriminated against because they face both gender and disability discrimination. This can limit their access to resources, services and opportunities and lead to further marginalization and exclusion. In addition, young women with disabilities may face additional barriers due to social stigma, lack of access to appropriate healthcare and accommodation, and the intersection of gender and disability discrimination. It is important to recognize these intersecting forms of discrimination and work to create a more inclusive and equitable society for young women with disabilities.
Why do I need a support circle and what impact does it have on PWDs?
Having a support circle can have a positive impact on people with disabilities by providing them with access to a network of support and understanding. It can be a source of emotional and practical support, as well as a safe space to discuss shared experiences and to access resources and advice.
Additionally, support circles can help to raise awareness of disability issues and to advocate for the rights of disabled people. Finally, having a support circle can help to reduce feelings of isolation and to create a sense of community and acceptance.
STEPS for a model support circle implementation plan
The steps for implementing dialogue and participation of people with disabilities in support circles are:
1. Ensure that the space is accessible and inclusive of all participants, including those with disabilities.
2. Create a plan for the support circle that outlines the activities, topics, and discussion points.
3. Make sure that everyone in the circle understands the purpose and guidelines of the support circle.
4. Allow for active participation from all members of the circle, including those with disabilities.
5. Facilitate meaningful dialogue and conversations that are respectful of all participants.
6. Provide resources, information, and other materials that are relevant to the participants’ experiences.
7. Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the support circle.
8. Set up a system for the participants to stay connected after the support circle has ended.
The organizational structure of a support circle can vary depending on the needs and goals of the participants. Generally, it is helpful to have a facilitator to lead the discussion and ensure that all participants have a chance to express their views. Additionally, it is important to have a structure that allows for active participation from all members of the circle, including those with disabilities. Finally, it is important to create a system for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of the support circle, and to develop a system for the participants to stay connected after the support circle has ended.
How to deliver Inclusion Support Circles face to face (guidelines, steps, practical tools and tips for facilitators)
When delivering an inclusion support circle face to face, it is important to start by creating a safe and welcoming environment for all participants. This can include ensuring that the space is accessible and inclusive of all participants, including those with disabilities, and that everyone understands the purpose and guidelines of the support circle. Additionally, it is important to provide resources and information that are relevant to the participants’ experiences, and to facilitate meaningful dialogue and conversations that are respectful of all participants. Finally, it is important to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the support circle, and to develop a system for the participants to stay connected after the support circle has ended.
Guidelines
When delivering an inclusion support circle face to face, the following guidelines should be followed:
1. Create a safe and welcoming environment for all participants.
2. Ensure that the space is accessible and inclusive of all participants, including those with disabilities.
3. Provide resources and information that are relevant to the participants’ experiences.
4. Facilitate meaningful dialogue and conversations that are respectful of all participants.
5. Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the support circle.
6. Develop a system for the participants to stay connected after the support circle has ended steps?
Steps
The steps for delivering an inclusion support circle face to face are as follows:
1. Establish the goals and objectives of the support circle.
2. Recruit participants from the local community.
3. Create and distribute a participant agreement to ensure that all participants understand the purpose and guidelines of the support circle.
4. Create a plan for the support circle that outlines the activities, topics, and discussion points.
5. Identify or create accessible and inclusive spaces for the support circle to meet.
6. Provide resources, information, and other materials for the support circle.
7. Facilitate meaningful dialogue and conversations that are respectful of all participants.
8. Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the support circle.
9. Set up a system for the participants to stay connected after the support circle has ended.
What are the benefits of support circles for people with disabilities?
The benefits of support circles for people with disabilities include providing an opportunity to connect with others who have similar experiences, providing emotional and practical support to each other, and accessing resources and advice that can help them navigate life with a disability. Additionally, support circles can be a source of validation, where the participants can feel seen, heard, and respected.
Practical Tools
Some practical tools that can be used in a support circle for people with disabilities include:
- active listening,
- open-ended questions,
- affirmations,
- check-ins,
- brainstorming,
- role-play,
- visual aids (such as diagrams or images),
- storytelling, and reflective activities.
Additionally, techniques such as restorative justice and trauma-informed approaches can be used to create a safe and supportive environment.
Finally, it is important to be mindful of the different needs and abilities of the participants, and to tailor the activities and discussions accordingly.
Tips for facilitators
When facilitating a support circle for people with disabilities, it is important to remember the following tips:
1. Ensure that the space is accessible and inclusive of all participants, including those with disabilities.
2. Allow for active participation from all members of the circle, including those with disabilities.
3. Tailor activities and discussions to the needs and abilities of the participants.
4. Facilitate meaningful dialogue and conversations that are respectful of all participants.
5. Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the support circle.
6. Set up a system for the participants to stay connected after the support circle has ended.
Tips for persons with disabilities
When participating in a support circle for people with disabilities, it is important to remember the following tips:
1. Be open and honest about your needs and experiences.
2. Speak up if you need help or feel that your needs are not being heard.
3. Respect the opinions and experiences of others in the circle.
4. Set boundaries and be mindful of your own needs.
5. Offer support, advice, and resources to other members of the circle.
6. Celebrate your successes and accomplishments.
The Key Principles of Inclusion Support Circles
Inclusion Support Circles operate on two main elements:
1) We are all interconnected through human rights.
2) Each person has inherent dignity and worth.
Beside these, it is so important to remember that:
- Every person has personal experience that can be shared.
- We all have something to learn from others.
- Listening for understanding is transformational.
1. The YWwD are the focus of the Inclusion Support Circle. The Inclusion Support Circle should reflect these persons identity, culture, and values.
2. The Inclusion Support Circle is grounded in the beliefs of choice, respect, trust, self- determination, capacity, inclusion, independence, and active citizenship.
3. Every Inclusion Support Circle is unique; Circles of Support grow and develop at different paces and in different ways. There is no need to be overly prescriptive or for lots of rules!
4. The Inclusion Support Circle builds on natural support networks; members care about the YWwD and have a genuine interest in their wellbeing.
5. The Inclusion Support Circle does not replace the role of the family or of services in a YWwD life.
6. The Inclusion Support Circle is not usually responsible for developing personalized care plans for the individual. The Inclusion Support Circle focuses on what is important to the YWwD – their needs of development, motivation, dreams and wishes.
7. The members of the Inclusion Support Circle work collaboratively and creatively. YWwD are open, honest, and willing to learn.
8. Inclusion Support Circle works towards a common vision: enabling the YWwD to achieve their personal goals and live their best life.
9. Each member of the Inclusion Support Circle has an equal opportunity to contribute. YWwD bring their own talents and attributes.
10. The Inclusion Support Circle assists the person with a disability with the person- centred planning process; decision-making, planning life goals for the present and future, identifying and addressing risks and barriers. Their work leads to clear actions and outcomes.
11. The Inclusion Support Circle celebrates achievements.
12. All inclusion support circles will face challenges.
They are not a quick fix solution and need time, commitment, and resources to establish and sustain them.
YWwD and facilitators should have realistic expectations.
In an Inclusion Support Circle, YWwD are able to talk with other folks who are like themselves - people who truly understand what they are going through and can share the type of practical insights that can only come from firsthand experience.
There are common characteristics of Inclusion Support Circles:
- They are made up of peers - YWwD who are all directly affected by a particular issue, or circumstance.
- They usually have a professional or volunteer discussion leader or facilitator.
- They tend to be fairly small in size, to better allow everyone a chance to talk.
- Attendance is voluntary.
Preparation and Planning key elements
- being organised and prepared for each session&topic
- know and understand the collective and individual needs of YWw in each session
- establishing positive structures and routines and developing approaches to enhance motivation
Participant-centred approach key elements
- consider all participants - YWwD as individuals in terms of their social, cultural and health circumstances. Reflect on their views and keep these central to practice
- ask YWwD about strategies that they have found useful in the past
- encourage YWwD to understand and manage their own needs independently, where possible
- involve YWwD in setting and reviewing their objectives to ensure they are meaningful and relevant
- take into account specific additional support needs may have individual participants - YWwD. For example, a communication difficulty or anxiety may find expression in withdrawal or in challenging behaviour
Differentiation and Flexible Topics key elements
- resources, which are accessible for different participants - YWwD with additional support needs
- topics of Circles should offer challenge and enjoyment; breadth; progression; depth; personalisation and choice; coherence and relevance
- topics and resources selected together with YWwD
- YWwD are involved in setting and reviewing their developing objectives to ensure relevance and create an element of personalization and choice
- the facilitating style should be adapted to meet the
needs of individual participants – YwwD
- strategies that promote active participation, including opportunities for multi-sensory learning and group work should be used
- good working relationships between peers – YwwD and cooperative and collaborative strategies
- implementation of peer mentoring - this involves the use of some YWwD to model appropriate behaviour or give support to other participants Inclusion Support Circles might be long-running, or they can be restricted for certain periods of time.
- the type of time-limited format is best suited to crisis situations.
- problems that are more long-term in nature - are better served by ongoing, long- term circles.
- open circles are those in which new members are welcome to join at any time during the life of the circle. This may also mean that anyone can join the group, friends, family members etc.
- in closed circles, people are only allowed to join at certain times (e.g., for the first three weeks only) or under certain circumstances.
- decision on a time that will make it possible for the most people to be there
- a good location of circle is very crucial
Presence:
- YWwD should be present, should take part in different contexts&actions which best meet their needs.
Involvement:
- YWwD should have voices heard in Inclusion Support Circles.
- YWwD should have the opportunity to participate and engage as fully as possible in aspects related to Inclusion Support Circles.
Achievements:
- YWwD should be achieving to their full potential in their community and groups.
- YWwD should have access to a variety of topics tailored to meet their needs.
Support
- YWwD should benefit from the Inclusion Support Circles implementation inclusive practices and relationships.
- YWwD should be given the right help, at the right time, from the right people, to support their wellbeing in and out of Inclusion Support Circles.
- YWwD should be supported to overcome barriers to achieve their full potential.
How to deliver Inclusion Support Circles face to face (guidelines, steps, practical tools and tips for facilitators)
Inclusion Support Circles face-to-face should be delivered in groups of 5 to 10 people, with a moderator taking the role of leading the process and creating an environment of trust and sharing. This person is referred to as the facilitator of the Inclusion Support Circle.
From the start, it should be stated the main aspects of the methodology to its participants so they can get involved with full clarity about the process, be totally informed and feel safe and that the core elements of the support circles are relevant. On the other hand, they should have access to the resources and materials that have been used as part of the experience after it’s finished.
Finally, as it happens with the online version, it is vital to evaluate the effectiveness of the support circle and to provide a system for the participants to stay connected after the support circle has ended.
The group is brought together intentionally with the person with a disability at the center. The group recognizes that this person is unique, with talents, skills, dreams, and a contribution to make to society.
If the group formed would like to continue with the Inclusion Support Circle, they may start with a small number of people and grow over time. Circles of Support often consist of between four and eight people; it should depend on the preference of the person with a disability. Some people are uncomfortable in large groups or it may be hard to reach a consensus and agree on actions in a large group.
Guidelines for delivering Inclusion Support Circles face-to-face include:
1. The person with a disability is the focus of the Inclusion Support Circle. It should reflect this person’s identity, culture, and values. The YWwD are the starting point. Therefore, the facilitator should evaluate the efficacy of the support circle, and provide a method for the YWwD to stay in touch after the Support Circle is concluded.
2. The Support Circle is grounded in the beliefs of choice, respect, trust, self-determination, capacity, inclusion, independence, and active citizenship.
3. Every Circle of Support is unique; Circles of Support grow and develop at different paces and in different ways. In this case, the facilitator should provide the tools, and let the discussion flow naturally and organically,
4. The Inclusive Support Circle builds on natural support networks; members care about the YWwD and have a genuine interest in their wellbeing.
5. The Circle of Support does not replace the role of the family or of services in a person’s life, but it should serve its purpose of strengthening the concepts provided in the methodology, and also the ones that arise during the discussion between the participants.
6. These types of plans focus on what is important for the YWwD - the support they need to stay healthy, safe, and well. The Support Circle focuses on what is important to the person – their dreams and wishes, and helps them achieve that on their own and with autonomy.
7. The participants should work collaboratively and creatively. They are open, honest, and willing to learn.
8. Every young woman with a disability that participates is working towards a common vision: enabling the person with a disability to achieve their personal goals and live their best life.
9. Each member of the session has an equal opportunity to contribute. They bring their own talents and attributes. Achievements and breakthroughs should be celebrated as such.
10.The facilitator should be aware that challenges are going to happen during the sessions. The Inclusive Support Circles are not a quick-fix solution and the ideas need time, commitment, and resources to establish and sustain them. Therefore they should have realistic expectations.
In addition, the facilitator should guarantee that the session is inclusive of all participants, regardless of their personal situations. They should also convey the information needed, the guidelines, and resources to help and improve the participant's experience in the Inclusion Support Circle.
The atmosphere should be based on the principles of acceptance and common understanding, where everyone can feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, and experiences, looking, and maybe asking for personal advice. In this sense, the facilitator should customize the experience based on the approach the YWwD are taking the Support Circle in, and also their needs, skills, and requests.
Active participation from all members of the circle should be encouraged. In order to facilitate meaningful dialogue and conversations that are respectful of all participants in the future, the facilitator could potentially follow up with participants after the support circle has ended.
Steps to create Inclusion Support Circles face to face?
1. Establish the goals and objectives of the support circle.
2. Set up the physical distribution and the right mindset to conduct the support circle, where a moderator will lead the discussion while letting it flow naturally and organically.
3. Create and distribute a participant agreement form to ensure that all participants understand the purpose and guidelines of the support circle.
4. Create a plan for the support circle that outlines the activities, topics, and discussion points.
5. Provide resources, information, and other materials for the support circle.
6. Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the support circle.
7. Set up a system for the participants to stay connected after the support circle has ended.
Practical tools to create Inclusion Support Circles face to face?
Some practical tools to create an Inclusion Support Circle face-to-face can include:
1. Online tools like Kahoot to perform activities involving questions. Even though the experience is face-to-face, it makes sense to provide digital tools that can enhance the real-life experience.
2. Agreements to sign personally and individually, to give to the YWwD in order to guarantee that they understand the purpose and guidelines of the support circle and the different aspects and activities that are going to take place, based on the practical concepts provided in the methodology.
These tools, which were also present in section IV, can also be applied in these sessions since they share the same end goal:
3. Activity and discussion plans to ensure that the support circle runs smoothly.
4. Resources and materials that are relevant to the participant’s experiences.
5. Evaluation tools to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the support circle.
6. Contact information cards or systems to allow participants to stay connected after the support circle has ended.
Steps for facilitators to implementing a support circle face to face
Steps for facilitators to implementing a support circle include:
1. Set from the start the main objectives to be accomplished together in the face-to-face session for the Support Circle. Make the YWwD involved in the process.
2. Find willing participants that can help create a positive inclusive atmosphere, starting from the local level, possibly contacting associations that can get in touch with YWwD interested in the Support Circle.
As in the case of the online support circles, and based on the previous points:
3. Create and share with the Support Circle a participant agreement form to ensure that all participants understand the purpose and guidelines of the support circle.
4. Together with the group of participants, decide a specific and organized plan for the session, which includes the practical tools, resources, activities and main topics to discuss together. Make it an inclusive experience where everybody can share at the same level.
5. Identify or create accessible and inclusive spaces for the support circle to meet.
6. Pay attention to the dynamics created in the session, and use the resources, information and materials accordingly for it to run smoothly.
7. Control metrics and evaluation to check the success and main takeaways from the session.
8. Set up a system for the participants to stay connected after the support circle has ended.,
Practical tip for the Facilitators to start the Support Circles
The facilitator should have the leading role, breaking the ice and introducing themselves before inspiring the rest of the group to do the same. There are several activities that can help, such as telling light-hearted stories about themselves or playing games such as trying to find pairs with hobbies in common.
Once the dynamic is settled and everybody feels a bit more welcomed and comfortable, the facilitator should explain the different activities and the main points of the session, insisting on the atmosphere that the Support Circle should have: everybody is welcome and free to join the discussion, and they all share the same objectives and goals.
How to deliver Inclusion Support Circles online (guidelines, steps, practical tools and tips for facilitators) (FAR+NCDP)
How to deliver Inclusion Support Circles online
Inclusion Support Circles can be delivered online by using video conferencing platforms such as Zoom, Skype, or Google Hangouts.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that the platform is accessible and inclusive of all participants, including those with disabilities. When setting up the virtual space, it is important to provide information on the purpose and guidelines of the support circle, as well as resources and materials that are relevant to the participants’ experiences. It is also important to create an atmosphere of acceptance and understanding, where everyone can feel comfortable sharing their experiences and offering advice.
Finally, it is important to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the support circle, and to provide a system for the participants to stay connected after the support circle has ended.
Guidelines for delivering Inclusion Support Circles online include:
1. Ensure that the platform is accessible and inclusive of all participants, including those with disabilities.
2. Provide information on the purpose and guidelines of the support circle, as well as resources and materials that are relevant to the participants’ experiences.
3. Create an atmosphere of acceptance and understanding, where everyone can feel comfortable sharing their experiences and offering advice.
4. Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the support circle, and provide a system for the participants to stay connected after the support circle has ended.
5. Tailor activities and discussions to the needs and abilities of the participants.
6. Allow for active participation from all members of the circle, including those with disabilities.
7. Facilitate meaningful dialogue and conversations that are respectful of all participants.
8. Follow up with participants after the support circle has ended.
Steps to create Inclusion Support Circles online?
1. Establish the goals and objectives of the support circle.
2. Set up a video conferencing platform and ensure that it is accessible and inclusive of all participants, including those with disabilities.
3. Create and distribute a participant agreement to ensure that all participants understand the purpose and guidelines of the support circle.
4. Create a plan for the support circle that outlines the activities, topics, and discussion points.
5. Provide resources, information, and other materials for the support circle.
6. Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the support circle.
7. Set up a system for the participants to stay connected after the support circle has ended.
Practical tools to create Inclusion Support Circles online?
Some practical tools to create an Inclusion Support Circle online include:
1. Video conferencing platforms such as Zoom, Skype, or Google Hangouts.
2. Participant agreements to ensure that all participants understand the purpose and guidelines of the support circle.
3. Activity and discussion plans to ensure that the support circle runs smoothly.
4. Resources and materials that are relevant to the participants’ experiences.
5. Evaluation tools to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the support circle.
6. Contact information cards or systems to allow participants to stay connected after the support circle has ended.
Steps for facilitators to implement a suport circle
Steps for facilitators to implement a support circle include:
1. Establish the goals and objectives of the support circle.
2. Recruit participants from the local community.
3. Create and distribute a participant agreement to ensure that all participants understand the purpose and guidelines of the support circle.
4. Create a plan for the support circle that outlines the activities, topics, and discussion points.
5. Identify or create accessible and inclusive spaces for the support circle to meet.
6. Provide resources, information, and other materials for the support circle.
7. Develop a system for monitoring and evaluating the success of the support circle.
8. Set up a system for the participants to stay connected after the support circle has ended.
Online support circle monitoring methods
Online monitoring methods for a support circle could include tracking the number of participants in each session, the number of posts in the group chat, the number of comments and views on posts, or the number of resources shared.
Additionally, online surveys or assessments can be used to collect feedback and to measure the effectiveness of the support circle. Additionally, online support circles can use social media platforms and other digital tools to stay connected, and to keep participants engaged. Finally, online support circles could use video conferencing tools, such as Zoom or Skype, to facilitate virtual meetings and to ensure that all participants have access to the support circle.
How it works
1. People with disabilities or their family members can contact the support circle by phone, e-mail or online form.
2. Circle of Support will provide information about their services and work with the individual or family to determine the best approach to meeting their needs.
3. The circle of support will match the individual or family with appropriate resources, such as peer support groups, job training programs, and advocacy organizations.
4. The individual or family is then connected to resources and given guidance on how to use them.
5. The circle of support will provide ongoing support and monitoring to ensure that the individual or family receives the services and resources they need.
6. The circle of support will also connect the individual or family with additional resources if needed.
How the facilitator presents the opening of the circle of support
The facilitator will begin the circle of support by introducing themselves and providing an overview of what the circle is and what it is meant to do. They will explain that the group is a safe space for PWDs and their families to share experiences, provide support and receive guidance. They will also explain the rules of the circle, such as respecting each other’s privacy, being honest, and being open to different perspectives.
The facilitator will then lead a discussion to get to know the participants and to introduce the topics that will be discussed during the circle. The facilitator will also help to foster a sense of community and belonging by encouraging discussion and participation. Finally, the facilitator will provide information about the resources available and how to access them.
Steps
1. The facilitator will introduce themselves and provide an overview of what the circle is and what it is meant to do.
2. The facilitator will explain the rules of the circle, such as respecting each other’s privacy, being honest, and being open to different perspectives.
3. The facilitator will lead a discussion to get to know the participants and to introduce the topics that will be discussed during the circle.
4. The facilitator will help to foster a sense of community and belonging by encouraging discussion and participation.
5. The facilitator will provide information about the resources available and how to access them.
6. The facilitator will outline the expectations of the circle, such as confidentiality and respect.
7. The facilitator will provide an opportunity for the participants to ask questions and provide feedback.
8. The facilitator will explain the process for providing support and how to access additional resources.
9. The facilitator will then lead the group in a guided meditation or relaxation exercise.
Online exercise models in a circle of support for PWDs
1. Relaxation and Mindfulness Exercises: The facilitator can lead the group through a series of relaxation and mindfulness exercises to help participants relax and reduce stress.
2. Problem-Solving Exercises: The facilitator can lead the group through problem-solving exercises to help the participants identify and address their challenges.
Ex. The facilitator can lead the group through a problem-solving exercise to help the participants identify and address their challenges. The exercise can start by having the participants identify a specific challenge they are facing. Then, the facilitator can ask them to brainstorm potential solutions and discuss the pros and cons of each option. After that, the group can select one option and create an action plan to implement the solution. At the end of the exercise, the facilitator can provide guidance and resources to help the participants move forward with the solution.
One example of an online problem-solving exercise would be the following:
1. The facilitator will ask the participants to identify a specific challenge they are facing.
2. The facilitator will then ask the participants to brainstorm potential solutions to the challenge.
3. The facilitator will facilitate a discussion about the pros and cons of each option.
4. The group will select one option and create an action plan to implement the solution.
5. The facilitator will provide guidance and resources to help the participants move forward with the solution.
6. The facilitator will review the action plan and provide feedback to the participants.
7. The facilitator will then ask the participants to evaluate the exercise and provide feedback.
Goal-Setting Exercises: The facilitator can lead the group through goal-setting exercises to help the participants set realistic and achievable goals.
Coping Strategies: The facilitator can lead the group through discussion and exercises on different coping strategies to help the participants manage stress and difficult emotions.
Journaling: The facilitator can encourage the participants to keep a journal to track their progress and reflect on their experiences.
Journaling is a useful tool for PWDs to track their progress and reflect on their experiences. The facilitator can encourage the participants to keep a journal, and provide guidance and resources on how to do so.
1. The facilitator will explain the benefits of journaling and provide resources on different writing techniques and prompts.
2. The facilitator can encourage the participants to set aside regular time for journaling.
3. The facilitator can provide guidance on how to use journaling to track progress, reflect on experiences, and process emotions.
4. The facilitator can provide tips and suggestions on how to write in a journal, such as using a specific format or writing style.
5. The facilitator can encourage the participants to share their journal entries with the group, if they are comfortable doing so.
6. The facilitator can provide support and guidance to the participants throughout the process.
Journal writing techniques
1. Free Writing: Free writing involves writing without any structure or plan. The goal is to simply write whatever comes to mind without worrying about grammar, punctuation, or spelling.
2. Stream of Consciousness Writing: Stream of consciousness writing involves recording your thoughts and feelings as they come to you, without any filtering or censoring.
3. Prompts: Prompts are questions or statements that can help generate ideas for writing.
4. Reflection: Reflection involves writing about a specific experience or event, and exploring how it made you feel and what you learned.
5. Gratitude: Writing about things you are grateful for can help you focus on the positive aspects of life.
6. Creative Writing: Creative writing involves creating stories or poems to express yourself.
6. Online Discussions: The facilitator can lead online discussions on topics relevant to the group, such as advocacy and self-care.
The facilitator can lead online discussions on topics relevant to the group, such as advocacy and self-care. The facilitator can also create an agenda for the discussion, set ground rules, and provide resources and activities to help guide the conversation. They can also encourage participation, ensure everyone’s voice is heard, and ensure that any decisions made are respected and followed up on. Additionally, the facilitator can help to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that everyone has the same access to information. Finally, the facilitator can help to create a safe and trusting environment for all participants.
Online advocacy model
An online advocacy model is a strategy used to bring attention to an issue or cause through the use of digital technology. This can include creating websites, blogs, and social media accounts to spread awareness, using online petitions and other forms of digital activism, and engaging in online conversations with decision makers. Online advocacy can be used to spread awareness, influence public opinion, and bring about positive change.
People with disabilities (PWDs) can use online advocacy to advocate for an accessible and inclusive world without barriers. This can include creating websites and blogs to highlight the challenges PWDs face and how these can be addressed, creating online petitions to demand change, engaging in online conversations with policy makers, and organizing digital events and campaigns to raise awareness. PWDs can also use digital tools to share their stories, connect with other PWDs, and build solidarity.
How to organize a digital event, steps
1. Identify the goal and purpose of the event: Start by determining what you want to accomplish with the event and who the target audience is.
2. Choose a platform: Decide which platform you will use to host your event. Popular options include Zoom, WebEx, and Google Meet.
3. Create an event page: Create an event page with all the necessary information, such as the date, time, and description of the event.
4. Promote the event: Promote your event through social media, email, and any other channels that make sense for your target audience.
5. Create engagement: Include interactive elements in your event to keep people engaged. This could include polls, Q&A sessions, and breakout rooms.
6. Follow up: After the event, follow up with attendees and thank them for participating. Ask for feedback and use it to improve future events.
7. Supportive Activities: The facilitator can lead supportive activities such as art therapy, music therapy, and yoga to help the participants find new ways to express themselves and reduce stress.
8. The facilitator will close the circle by thanking the participants and giving them an opportunity to provide feedback.
