
4 minute read
NTHNHS: Health and Wellbeing Magazine - Issue 1, October 2021
SPOTLIGHT
Ability Group Network
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- Pharmacy support worker and group member, Nic Samuels
When was the group established:
March 2021 (six sessions held so far)
Name of group leader:
Kris Bell, ability group network lead (pictured second from left)
How often does the group meet:
Monthly
What made you want to become involved in the group:
I have a genuine passion for helping people, especially those who feel vulnerable, or lack confidence and self-esteem. I wanted to help create a safe and supportive space for members where they can connect with each other (and themselves), helping them to feel confident and comfortable to speak openly about the challenges they have. My aim is to not only help with their confidence and speaking out but to also raise disability awareness and help make positive change in attitudes, perceptions and eliminate misunderstandings.
I feel anyone can benefit from being disability aware, especially unseen (or hidden) disabilities. Having a better understanding can have a significant impact in supporting a member of staff who has a disability.
What are the aims of the group:
To provide members with a confidential and supportive environment where challenges or obstacles can be discussed openly. To also discuss support that is available and suggestions for improvement or reasonable adjustments that can help in their work. It’s a safe space to share personal experiences and work challenges, share thoughts and frustrations, meet new people, or to listen and reflect – there is no pressure; it is a very comfortable atmosphere.
The network also creates a sense of belonging and inclusion where participants feel valued, heard, and reassured that they are not alone. We can help towards making improvements that can support participants to flourish, grow and feel happier in their work without any unnecessary struggles.
What has the group managed to achieve so far:
• Our group has grown significantly in confidence and morale as members have built rapport with each other and become comfortable with sharing their experiences, they are very supportive of each other.
• We held an excellent disability awareness day on the 13 September to increase staff awareness and received a lot of positive feedback including new members to the group.
• We hope to develop further events in the future to continue to raise awareness and share support with staff Trust-wide.
Who can join the group:
Any member of staff who has a disability can join. We also welcome anyone who would like to attend as a speaker to share their story if they are caring for someone who has a disability. Their experience can also help others.
Any member of staff can also request information or access support relating to a specific disability with fact sheets available on request.
How does the group help support staff health and wellbeing:
Having a support network can have a big impact on staff mental health and wellbeing. It’s important to have and know where to go if someone needs support. It’s good to talk but it’s not all about words, it is about actions and making things happen.
Supporting each other, feeling comfortable to speak openly about how they are feeling and their challenges, as well as ways to overcome them can help boost self-worth and confidence levels. It is a relaxed atmosphere where they can ‘let off steam’, pour their heart out if needed or enjoy a little laugh together with light hearted humour; everyone leaves the session on a ‘high’ feeling better and boosted. It’s knowing they have a voice and someone to come to who is working to ensure they never feel undervalued or excluded.
Contact information:
Kristopher.bell@nhs.net or nth-tr.disabilitynetwork@nhs.net