Care Team
What is the Care Team?
We want to be a church in which everyone belongs. The vast majority of the support in our church comes not from the vicar, but from one another. This is a vital part of what makes us a church; that we are all ministers to one another! Our small group structure is one part of this - that everyone has a place of belonging, where they are known, and listened to. However, sometimes there are particular needs that can't be met in small groups and which require others.
Will, churchwardens and PCC agreed that we wanted to find a way to make sure everyone is cared for in our bigger, growing and transient church. The care team will be a team of non-specialists who will triage and offer support or signposting. It will made up of volunteers led by a volunteer leader, Andrea Bosomworth.
You can be Involved too!
The care team is for everyone. We are looking to build a large team of people who just want to help, in whatever way. There is no one offer - everyone will have different skills, experiences and capacity they bring. It might be to visit, to speak over the phone, to do some shopping or give a lift. There is no one commitment of time or resources; it will vary from person to person. You won't be signing your life away: we recognize that as seasons change people's availability changes too.
How will the Care Team work?
The care team will work on a referral system. Anyone from the church will be able to contact theteam in a variety of ways (phone/email/contact cards). The team will then be able to determinewhat help can be offered. The team will work closely with small group leaders and the ministry team to work out what sort of support is already being offered.
How do I get Involved?
If you think you have some time or skills to offer, just email care@stnics.org.uk
Key Questions:
Can anyone join the team?
Yes! Every person on the team who will be working with people will need to do some online
safeguarding training and may need a DBS check. This is all an easy process!
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What sorts of things will the team help with?
The team will help with things that small groups might be stretched to help with. Things like:
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Providing lifts to church or events
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Visiting people who are housebound or immobile, or checking in with a phone call
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Delivering shopping or other essential items
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Delivering meals
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Doing some housework or gardening for people who need that support
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Is the Care Team a counselling service?
No. The team will be made up of non-specialists. We believe in finding the right professional support for any mental health issues. We also think that small groups, and church friends, are the best places to get the support and help over the long term that we all need.