So it Begins…

My name is Alex, and I am a System Broker. A what? Are you trying to sell me insurance? Ok, so it is an unusual title and, like the concept of Fulfilling Lives, may take a bit of getting used to, but they both do exactly as their name suggests: we broker the system and we are aiming to allow clients to realise a fulfilled life.

There are three System Brokers, each hosted with a different agency:

Ray Middleton – Mental Health Concern

Richy Cunningham – Oasis Aquila Housing

and me, Alex Smith – Changing Lives

We are all very different, with a range of experience from mental health, substance misuse and housing and I think it would be fair to say, we’re all pretty vocal about our passions and beliefs and it is this energy that has driven us on to where we are today.

Alongside getting to know each other, we have been working hard to visit services throughout Newcastle and Gateshead to talk about our new project and to learn about the work already being done in the two areas. We have learnt a lot and we have taken this learning to create a working model for Fulfilling Lives, from the point we receive a referral to the ways in which we will work with our clients.

What’s happening?

To delve into the practicalities, we have set up a dry run and have currently received three referrals, which we’re very excited about, as it not only gives us a chance to test out the system, but will also allow us to walk in a Navigator’s shoes, where the learning will, no doubt, be boundless. Again, you may find the term Navigator a little strange, but it describes perfectly how our team will work with clients, navigating them through the complex matrix of systems and services. Our Navigators will have the stickability factor and from referral to the end of the project will provide a constant source of physical and emotional support, motivation and energy to drive our clients through recovery and on to more fulfilled lives: a tough challenge, but one we’re more than up for!

On a more strategic note, we have appointed our Navigator host agencies and the next step is to advertise the posts; this is where the real work will begin. We’re already thinking about the shape of the induction package for our Navigators, which will include comprehensive training around complex needs including an in-depth look at offending, homelessness, substance misuse and mental health. There will also be the chance for plenty of bonding over a buffet or two.

As System Brokers, we are advocates of change, our priority being to ensure that the systems across Newcastle Gateshead work effectively for our clients, enabling those in the darkest of places to see light and hope in a new future. We are passionate about the mission we have undertaken with Fulfilling Lives, and look forward to the coming months which will take us from mobilisation to practice and a chance to show just how much can be achieved by this amazing project.