What is a Personal Support Network?
At PLAN, we believe that relationships are the foundation of a good life.
A Personal Support Network is a group of people who provide companionship, support, and guidance. For some, this might include family, friends, or neighbors. For others, it could involve professionals like counselors or financial advisors.
Not everyone starts with a strong network, and that’s okay. Building connections that reflect your unique interests, abilities, and needs takes time and intention.
Why Personal Support Networks Matter
A strong Personal Support Network can:
- Foster meaningful relationships and friendships.
- Provide support for making decisions and planning for the future.
- Ensure safety, security, and financial stability.
- Create opportunities for inclusion, contribution, and full citizenship.
At the heart of every network is friendship. Members of a Personal Support Network care deeply about the person at the center. Whether they stay in regular contact or simply want to be there in times of need, these connections provide a foundation of belonging and security.
Supporting People with Disabilities
For some, developing a Personal Support Network comes naturally. For others, particularly people with disabilities, building and sustaining these relationships may require more intentional effort.
That’s where PLAN comes in. We work alongside individuals and families to create Personal Support Networks that:
- Last a Lifetime: Designed to provide ongoing support and evolve with changing needs.
- Focus on Genuine Connections: Built on mutual care, shared interests, and trust.
- Empower Lives: Helping people live with dignity, purpose, and inclusion.
Who Makes Up a Personal Support Network?
Every network is unique, but they often include:
- People who offer advice, encouragement, and comfort.
- Genuine friends who share meaningful connections and experiences.
- Individuals who care about safety and security.
- Those who stay in touch and enjoy spending time together.
- People who recognize and celebrate gifts, talents, and passions.
Building a network is about creating a circle of care that supports the individual at the center while honoring their contributions and potential.
How PLAN Can Help
PLAN specializes in helping people build and nurture networks that reflect their unique lives and aspirations. Through collaboration with families and individuals, we help:
- Identify caring individuals to include in the network.
- Strengthen relationships to ensure they are meaningful and reciprocal.
- Plan for the future by preparing network members to take on important roles, such as advocacy or decision-making.
- Provide ongoing support to keep networks active and responsive over time.
Our approach ensures that Personal Support Networks are not only created but also sustained, providing a lasting source of connection, care, and security.
Whether you are just starting to think about building a network or looking for ways to strengthen existing connections, PLAN is here to help. Together, we can create networks that empower individuals to lead lives of dignity, belonging, and purpose.