Looking at the options - About-Us - Upstream

Looking at the options

Options for individuals in contact with the mentoring service may be discussed at:

(a) the first visit,
(b) subsequent visit if a person is not ready to discuss options straightaway
(c) any stage of the service if someone wants to change direction.

1. Signposting in general: Many people who make contact, or who are introduced to the service, have simply been out of touch for a while with what is going on locally and would like to know about existing community activities or groups. The mentor will provide information, help people to make contact with whatever they choose, introduce them on a first occasion if requested, and help to resolve any transport (or other logistical) problems. The mentor will also stay in touch for a while.
   
2. Signposting to other services: If appropriate, mentors will discuss the variety of voluntary sector services available to people. The co-operative network of voluntary sector organisations (the Healthy Living Community) ensures that each individual is signposted to the service that best suits their needs and choice, whether it is a Carer’s group, Volunteer visiting scheme, Health-training group, Support group for specific health issues, Day centre, Lunch club, etc.
   
3. Making information easier: Some people want more information (e.g. health, practical help in the home, professional services) but are unaware of the availability of information or find it difficult or are reluctant to access or make use it. The mentor will guide people to make best use of information sources such as ‘My Devon’, the Devon County Council Customer Service Centre, or may personally introduce people to particular services and follow-up to ensure satisfaction. Mentors work closely with ‘My Devon’ to help those who do not normally use such a service.
4. ‘Upstream’ activity group: Some people do not find that existing community clubs and groups are what they need. They want small, friendly, informal groups, similar to the work of Upstream in Mid Devon, where creative and social activities lead to increased confidence and gradual independence. These groups are specifically started in local, often isolated communities, close to people’s homes to make access easier, and encourage people to develop their own interests and social networks. Over 3 to 4 months, people gradually take on responsibility for sustaining the group themselves and the mentor withdraws to the role of occasional support.
5. Home-based activity: Some people are housebound and need an activity in their home. The mentor will help to make arrangements for the first 2-3 months and will help the participant to make contact with other people with similar interests who might visit the participant’s home or stay in contact by phone, post or email.
   
6. Wait a while or not appropriate: Some people may be interested in taking up an activity later but prefer to wait. The mentor can make contact again after a while.