From the Victorian Dept of Human Services in Australia as a part of the Changing Days Project, in "A Guide To Natural Supports" they ask some important questions when beginning the process of developing natural supports in the community which include:
Preliminary Questions to Ask:
THE INDIVIDUAL-Who is this person? What are their hopes & dreams?
THEIR VALUES-What do they value? Who would they like to spend their time with?
THEIR CHOICE-Their community of choice? Where would they spend their time?
THEIR ASSOCIATIONS-Who are the people currently involved in the person's life?
THE OPPORTUNITIES-What opportunities do they bring? What could be built on?
Motivational Questions to Ask:
HAPPINESS-When is the person at their happiest?
REFLECTIONS-What does the person keep coming back to (talk about, want, enjoy)?
MOTIVATION-What energizes or motivates them?
ATTRACTION-What kinds of people is the person drawn to?
SENSE OF MISSION-What will the person sacrifice to do?
PASSION-What generates energy in the person?
SATISFACTION-What satisfies them?
Personal Questions to Ask:
THEIR ROLE-What is the individual's role in the asking? What is the relationship?
THEIR INTEREST-What are the common interests, passions and concerns of all?
THEIR STARTING POINT-What could be the "stepping stone" to something more?
THEIR EXPECTATIONS-Are the individual's expectations reasonable?
THEIR LOCATION-Where will these relationships be taking place?
THEIR TIMING-Is there time needed for reflection for the other person(s) involved?
THIER CHOICE-Have people been given the permission to say "Yes" or "No"?
This guide offers a good perspective and starting point for Peer Support Specialists as they are beginning to assist the individuals they support in developing meaningful friendships and relationships in the community.
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