Practice Framework - Circles of Support
Our Circles of Support Practice Framework is based on restorative values – supporting local families to make positive changes to their lives, drawing strength from their relationships and networks.
The Framework provides a context for workers to guide these changes, however it also is a continually developing and changing thing in itself – it is a learning system, using feedback, both positive and negative, from service users and staff to constantly improve our services. Transparency and accountability are an important aspect of the Framework, with the focus being on learning.
Our relational approach uses relationships to build trust and support change through clear communication and empathy.
Systemic theory informs our practice and helps make sense of complex situations. We don’t view people as ‘the problem’, we understand that their circumstances are the product of many interacting factors.
Focusing on relationships helps us better understand their needs, strengths and resources – and helps us develop tools for managing risk.
There are six core principles underlying our Practice Framework, which we call the six Cs.
Confidence
We respond to risk with confidence.
We accept it is not possible to eliminate all risk, instead working within a context of safe uncertainty, and using our relationships to mitigate risk.
Clarity
We respond to risk with confidence.
We accept it is not possible to eliminate all risk, instead working within a context of safe uncertainty, and using our relationships to mitigate risk.
Community
We are proud to be part of the community of Newham.
We celebrate the diversity in our community, recognising and responding to difference, and we build lasting relationships and welcome feedback.
Co-production
Children and young people are our first priority, and their needs are at the heart of all we do.
Children and young people’s feedback and involvement is central to our work. We listen to them, aim to build trust and will always work with them, never against them.
Curiosity
We use a systemic approach to understand complex issues, always aiming to understand relationships in the context of family life. We recognise that language and difference shape meaning and experiences.
Compassion
We provide support by building on strengths and enabling people to forge stronger foundations from which to improve. We appreciate the individual strengths of those we work with, recognise their challenges and work with them to find solutions to complex issues.
