All people need to belong somewhere, to be recognised and wanted.
Believe in and discover people’s gifts.
The first message about community that a person should get is that they and their team are in it together.
Discover what brings out the best in the people you support and find how to help them get more of it.
Don’t be scared about the community; the community is generally a safe place and support staff need to be brave.
Staff and their family and friends can be a very valuable source of connection. This might be a good place to start but shouldn’t be the place you finish.
Community can be anywhere, it can evolve and strengthen from any connection with careful support.
Give community options but never impose them.
Believe in the value of community and the importance of feeling that you belong.
Take as much time and thought to support people with friendships and relationships as with the rest of your work.