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Facilitator Building Community Networks

Belonging Matters

Background to the Position

Building Community Networks is an initiative of Belonging Matters. It’s based on two concepts, Circles of Support and Roles Based Practice.

Over 25 years ago, the idea of Circles of Support originated in Canada and since then have been used widely in many countries as an idea and practice to intentionally invite people to come together in friendship and support of a person with a disability. Circles of Support harness the goodwill, knowledge and connections of community members rather than viewing the person as a service recipient. They can also be a useful safeguard for the future.

Roles Based Practice assists in enabling, establishing, enhancing and maintaining valued social roles for people who are often marginalised and not afforded the same opportunities as other citizens in the community to pursue employment, career pathways, a home of their own, civic contribution, study, personal growth, friendships, spirituality, purpose and well-being. Roles Based Practice is an approach that combines the most beneficial components of person-centred practice to the critical thought base associated with Social Role Valorisation and to practices for improving social status, social inclusion and employment outcomes for people with a disability (Scott Ramsey, 2007).

Purpose of Position

To provide well informed facilitation of Circles of Support that is guided by Roles Based Practice to enable people with a disability (together with their families) to build full, meaningful and inclusive lives in the community.

Key Responsibilities

  • To facilitate and build the capacity of the focus person and the Circle of Support so that it enables the focus person to:
    • Identify a unique vision for a full, meaningful and inclusive life,
    • Develop positive and valued roles and relationships in the community based on their interests, abilities and passions (typical of any other citizens),
    • Develop their abilities, relationships and safeguard the future,
    • Discern individual’s needs and analyse how these needs may be met through informal responses and generic community resources,
    • Make informed decisions and direct their own life with the necessary supports,
    • Identify possible implementation solutions that create alternatives to segregated, special or congregated services.
  • To forge positive, respectful and strong relationships with people with a disability, families and allies.
  • Ensure the focus person is respected and empowered to have say so over their Circle of Support and life.

About Belonging Matters

Belonging Matters is a not-for-profit organisation that is led by people with a disability and families. It was established in 2003 to challenge the systemic exclusion of people with a disability. It does this by providing a range of capacity enhancing resources, learning opportunities, information and advisory services for people with disabilities, families and professionals interested in belonging, community and social inclusion.

Our vision is “A community strengthened by the inclusion of all”. Our mission is to inspire, educate and build the capacity at the grass roots to assist people with disabilities to live valued lives in the community. Our aim is to empower people with a disability and their families, deepen knowledge and skills, create change and encourage people with a disability to live full, meaningful and inclusive lives in the community.

To submit your application, please click Apply Now.

A complete Position Description is attached. 

For further information or to apply for the above position please contact Teresa Micallef, Belonging Matters BCN Manager: email [email protected] using the subject line: Facilitator Building Community Networks enquiry via EthicalJobs.

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