KEY MESSAGES

• We all have a universal need to be loved and liked.
• The importance of trust.
• Recognise that relationships take time, effort and thoughtfulness.
• Recognise the importance of relationships with families.
• Develop awareness that everyone wants relationships in their lives and follow clues and possibilities.
• The relationship between the person being supported and their support worker must be the right relationship, they must like each other and it must be real.
• There is a natural solidarity with people when you are in a positive relationship with them.
• If things go wrong its important not to lose faith in relationships.
• Recognise that people need time alone when they have twenty four hour support.
• Be aware of people’s previous experiences of relationships and the impact of these now.
• Everything the supported person does is communication and we need to be tuned in with that and learn the individual’s language to be in a good relationship.
• Being yourself and being true to yourself is part of work.

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