Before Going Out in the Community

Going out can be the best part of someone’s week. Sometimes it’s just an ordinary day out. And sometimes things can be more stressful than expected.

A little preparation can often make it a bit more likely that the day goes well.

This article has been put together from our experiences and what we’ve heard can work from other support workers.

Start with the person

A starting point can simply be asking what the person would like to do.

In whatever way works for them, you might ask:

If they’re unsure, you may even want to suggest a couple of options. Maybe somewhere they already enjoy, or one new idea.

It can also help to check how they’re feeling that day.

That helps the day take shape around what feels right for them.

Agree on the plan

Before heading out, it can help if everyone has a rough idea of the plan.

This might include:

For some people this might be a quick conversation. For others it might involve talking things through a little more.

Where possible, make sure the day feels like theirs by involving the person in the decision.

However, there doesn’t always need to be a plan, sometimes it’s can be about going with the flow. It depends on what works best for the person and on that day.

Check the practical things

Before leaving, it can help to do a quick check. Sometimes doing this together makes it easier.

Things like:

Depending on the person, there may also be other things to think about such as mobility equipment, assistive technology, or anything that helps them feel comfortable while out.

Think about stress points

People experience environments differently. This goes for the person you support and for you as a support worker.

It can help to think ahead about things like:

For some people this may relate to sensory experiences. For others it may be about accessibility, energy levels, or navigating busy spaces.

These things aren’t always a problem, but being aware of them can make things work better.

Involve them in getting ready

Where possible, the person can be part of getting ready to go out.

This might include:

Small moments like this can be an important part of the day.

A quick check before leaving

Just before heading out, it can be helpful to do a quick check-in. Doing this really depends on the person, the day, and what you might be doing.

You might ask something like:

“Ready to head off?”

or

“Still feel like going?”

Like all of us, people change their minds. Adjusting the plan when needed is often part of good support.

What this comes down to

Good community support can look very different depending on the person and the day. But involving the person in before you even go out can be an important part of the experience.

When they’re part of planning the day and making decisions along the way, it can make going out feel more relaxed and work well for everyone.