Avenues’ Quality inspections are underway: the people we support are reviewing what we do

Wednesday 4th of December 2024

Our new Quality Checkers are now out and about in services, giving their view on what’s good and what needs to get better.

All the checkers are people we support, paid by Avenues to give their expert view on our services so we can keep improving them.

The inspection of Station Road followed a Local Engagement Group Meeting, where people we support in nearby services gathered to talk about what’s going on locally and what they could do in the future.

The meeting was held up slightly because the binmen hadn’t arrived on schedule and Roger, from Higham Road, wanted to make sure it was all done before the conversation started.

Once the meeting ended and a cake competition had taken place, Angela (pictured) was supported with her inspection.

She told us that she wanted to be a Quality Checker for lots of reasons: “I’m a bit nosey, and like looking around to see what’s good. Also, having a job means I can buy things for myself. I’d like a green cardigan and some sweets. And I can get some more dollies for my collection.”

Another new Quality Checker, Richard, said: “I’m really pleased to be doing this. I want to give people a voice, and bring their experiences to light, so their views are taken into account when Avenues makes decisions. I was involved in interviews for new trustees at Avenues and said then that people should get more opportunity to give feedback on what needs to change. This is important, because people who are getting support understand the local services better than anyone – both the good bits and what needs to improve.

“One of the things I will be looking out for is high agency use. I know it’s sometimes necessary, but overuse can have a negative effect on the support people get.

“It’s great that staff get the chance to feedback to the Quality Checkers too. Everyone should have the chance to be listened to, and be treated with the same level of respect. Doing things like this is what will make Avenues a great charity.”

Coproduction Lead Paige Andrews said there are opportunities for more people to get jobs as Quality Checkers with Avenues: “The range of people we now have working for us shows just how many more people we support could take the opportunity. If you work with someone who would be interested in being a Quality Checker, please do get in touch regardless of any challenges you think they might have in the role. We can work together and find ways to make sure we give people the opportunity.”