Working With Groups of Clients
Introduction
With Supporting People’s emphasis on client involvement, and initiatives such as Activating Places of Change, agencies and workers are increasingly seeing the advantages of working with groups of users and/ or supporting them in setting up their own groups. While we are often skilled in working with clients on a one–to-one basis, new skills need to be developed when looking at the dynamics of a group. This course explores how groups function and the factors we should consider when setting them up. It will also develop workers skills in making appropriate interventions in group situations.
Aims
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For workers to understand the dynamics of groups
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For workers to be able to set up and work with groups of clients, understanding the difference between interventions with groups and individuals
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For workers to understand how groups form naturally and the rivalries that can develop
Target Group
This course is intended for any worker who works with, or is thinking of working with, service users in a group setting. It will also be useful for workers who work in a setting where users come together naturally as a group; this will include most day centres and hostels
Objectives
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To understand why groups are important and how they are defined
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To understand how people connect in groups and the roles they may take within them
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To understand the impact of size and time on a group
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To understand how norms and beliefs are developed and expressed in a group
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To examine when to set up a group and why
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To examine their role in the group and the idea of leadership
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To explore the possible activities that a group could undertake
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To develop skills in observing and recording group processes
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To examine how groups autonomously form and their interactions with other groups