Building a Safety Net
Most of us have a natural support network that includes family members – parents, siblings, grandparents, extended family – and close friends. These relationships give us a sense of security and a safety net, offering both emotional and practical support. Some people have large networks, while others have smaller ones, but regardless of size, these connections are vital to our well-being. Even when these networks are separated by distance, the bond remains strong and support is still there when needed.
Our natural support networks are made up of people who have committed to support one another, usually for life. Over time, things like distance, life changes, or busy schedules can affect how closely we stay connected and how these networks function. It’s important to recognize that people may need support in maintaining, nurturing, and strengthening the relationships they have as well as developing or renewing connections.
This section highlights the need for understanding how someone wants to be supported in keeping their relationships strong. It includes resources to help reconnect family and friends, or to rebuild relationships that may have been lost or strained. The MSNA toolkit and tips on maintaining and re-establishing relationships can offer valuable guidance.
Supporting People to nurture and Maintain relationships
Support reconnection on their terms
Support the person to identify which relationships matter most to them and how they want to reconnect. Start by supporting them to choose how they want to connect and to make the first move, whether it’s sending a message or making a phone call.
Explore and respect communication styles
Every person has their own way of communicating. Find out how the person feels comfortable communicating in different relationships – phone calls, text messages, or in-person conversations. Consider how others in their network respond.
Choice in rebuilding relationships
Support the person to find many options for how to rebuild trust and understanding in strained relationships. Support them to lead the pace and direction when working through challenges.
Celebrate small steps
Rebuilding relationships takes time. Celebrate small wins along the way, like, reaching out to a friend or spending more time with a family member. Celebrating progress builds confidence.
Use natural supports to strengthen connections
Support the person to tap into their social and support network who may know how a relationship could be reconnected or nurtured. Ask questions like, “who in your circle can help you strengthen this relationship? or “Who might you feel comfortable going to for support in this situation?”
Respect boundaries and decisions
recognize that not all relationships can (or should) be rekindled. Support the person in making informed decisions about who they want in their lives and how much they want to invest.
Reflect on values
Support the person to reflect on their relationships to make sure they feel heard, valued, and respected.
Map it out!
MSNA Toolkit: Knowing natural supports
Get to know the person you support, their relationships and how they want to be supported. Support them to set and achieve goals, maintain and nurture relationships, increase their natural supports and access social capital.
Working alongside the person you support, use the Circle of Supports to map out who is a part of their life and identify who are their natural supports and where you can support them to build and nurture relationships.
Get creative and customize the 5 Step Scale to support people to achieve goals in smaller manageable steps!
The Satisfaction and Wishes survey will help you understand how the person you supports feels about their relationships and how they would like them to grow.
Use the ID Card to keep the team working together to support the person to maintain and nurture their relationships.
Using this tool can help you and your team to:
- Ensure continuity of support
- Accountability
- Better understand what the person you support really values in life
Download the MNSA Toolkit
Helpful Extras
The Power of Natural Supports – Webinar, Connections First Calgary
Chapter 5: Natural Support Networks – Agencies supporting people with intellectual disabilities – Abilities Manitoba
Connecting to Natural Support Networks – Article, CQL The Council on Quality and Leadership
A Guide to Building Naturally Supportive Communities – Website, Connections First, Calgary