People we support
Local engagement groups
Face-to-face meetings happen once a month for people we support to discuss news in their area, things they would enjoy doing, and likes and dislikes.
There is the opportunity to feedback on plans Avenues has, and guest speakers from different Avenues departments are also invited. All employees at Avenues are trained in coproduction, including non-operational staff.
We now have eight local engagement groups, with more than 80 people we support getting involved in meetings.
The groups also enjoy activities provided by the co-production lead or the service itself. And of course there is tea, coffee and biscuits!
Meeting every month has become an important part of people’s routines, and offers people the opportunity to socialise and chat about what they have been up to.
Many new friendships have been formed by those taking part, with people starting activities together outside the group.
Quality Checkers
Our Quality Checkers use their lived experience to help us make sure we’re getting things right for people.
They go into services and speak to the staff team and people supported about what’s working and what needs to be improved.
They review the quality of the building and any gardens, including the decoration, layout, accessibility and repairs.
Our Quality Checkers chat to people about their support and also listen to peoples’ opinions.
Their valuable findings will be recorded and used in Avenues work around service improvement.
Two of our checkers, Jack and James, live at our Solstice House Service in Surrey.
Jack said: “We’re very excited to be starting as Quality Checkers, it will be good to speak to other people supported by Avenues and to help.” James added: “I’m happy to ask and answer questions in every service we go to. Looking forward to getting started.”