The Model

A paid facilitator will inform potential families about the project and identify 10 - 15 families willing to participate. The facilitator will help the caregiver and the person receiving care (family) by:

• identifying with the family, people within the community who either have a connection with them or who may be willing to develop a relationship and help out
• working with the family to identify strengths and areas of need
• bringing family and willing community members together to look at needs and how they may be met (i.e. develop a circle of support)
• keeping contact with family and support circle members to monitor the functioning of the circle
• bringing the family and support circle together as required to evaluate effectiveness and make changes, if necessary, or to deal with crisis situations

During the two years, records will be kept to be used in evaluating the effectiveness of the model.

This new model will enhance the social support network of caregivers and the people receiving care while reducing reliance and demands on the present service delivery system. With the home support budget over-extended, this model should offset monetary losses while providing a service more tailored to the needs of the caregiver.

Here are some features and expected outcomes resulting from the project:

• a pilot that will be transferable to other communities
• caring bonds and meaningful connections between people in a community
• an opportunity for residents to contribute to their community
• support for both the caregiver and the person receiving care
• support to professionals working with the caregiver and the person receiving care
• helping caregivers advocate for their needs
• reassurance to caregivers that stretches beyond service hours of professionals
• preventing isolation of the caregiver and the person receiving care
• a way to deal with crises
• a partnership between a paid worker, the caregiver and the person receiving care, and their community
• caring for elderly people in a community with respect and love

Proposal Documents

The following files in PDF format are available for download. Just click on the links and the download will begin. You will need a copy of Acrobat Reader in order to view these files. If you do not have a copy of Acrobat Reader, you can get it for free at the link immediately below:

Citizensbank grant

Vancouver Foundation