The relationship circle tool
To use the relationship circle tool, start by writing the name of the person being supported in the center of the diagram. Then write the names of the people that they know around them, placing the most important people closest to the center. You can place people in one of four categories:
Family
Family can include any relatives who are a part of someone’s life. For example, this could range from Mom who they see most days to Uncle Joe who they only see once or twice a year.
We must also recognize the fact that – although most are – not all families are close. Each person’s perspective and situation is unique.
Paid supporters
Paid supporters include anyone who is paid to be in someone’s life such as a support worker, doctor or hairdresser. For some of the people we support, these paid supporters make up the majority of the people that they know.
Friends and unpaid support
This category can include anyone that the person knows and has a relationship with. This could include people that they don’t know well but who they see or chat with regularly, like the lady who works at the Post Office or the guy who serves behind the bar. It might include people that they knew in the past, but with whom they have lost contact.
School, work or day services
Many of us get to know people through our place of education or work, or through day services. Who are these people and how well does someone know them? Are there any people that the person would like to get to know better?
Complete this task
Think about your own relationship circles. Print out a blank relationship circle and then try filling it in for yourself.