Module 4: Community Resources and Support Chapter 1: Meaning and Concept of community Resources and Support  Main Content  The term 'community resources' covers a wide range of things that is potentially helping the community. This could be anything as long as it provides assistance or a service to the members of the local area. To put it simply, community resources include people, places, activities and things. They could be businesses, organizations, public service institutions or individuals in the community. Community resources can also be funded in a variety of ways. They can be run by completely non-profit groups or by the government, businesses or just one person. While traditionally these resources meant specific support groups, charitable organisations or different outreach groups, nowadays, they refer to a wider set of things. The list of types of community resources is also endless. There are of course more established and more commonly known ones that anyone could name from the top of their head. But as long as something is supporting a community, a smaller group of it or even one single individual, that thing or person counts as part of community resources.

Types of community resources

It is not easy to gather all types of community resources since they form quite a wide group. However, it’s a good start to look at the differentiation of people, places, and services. These can be seen as the main types of community resources with many smaller groups and individuals within them. Here are some examples of these to give you a general idea about community resources.

People	Places	Services
Teacher Postal worker Gardeners Doctor Mechanic Priest Police Officer	Worship centers Bakery shop Flower shop Grocery store Gardens and Parks Gym Playground Train Station Library Museum Cinema Restaurant Theatre Clubs and organisations	Physical and mental health services Youth services Financial services Religious services Entertainment services

Assignment 

• Who can fund community resources?
• Mention any five types of community resources
• Community Resources can also be business or public service: True or False 
• Types of community resources can be classified into place, people and service: True or False

Chapter 2: What is a community? Different Types of Communities: Understanding the Essence of 'Community'   What is a community? A community is more than just a physical space. It is a group of people who share values, identity, norms, beliefs, resources, needs, preferences, and risks. This shared identity solidifies their bonds, creating a sense of belonging and understanding. It's important to remember that a compromise from one end could potentially disrupt this harmony.   Shared Purpose: The Heart of a Community An organized community should have a platform where its members can interact and air their opinions. These platforms could be virtual or physical, allowing accessible communication among its members. For example, a co-living space is a residential community that accommodates more than two individuals who may or may not know one another.   Features of a Community A Group of People Before a community could be referred to as one, there should be an association of individuals occupying a particular territory or platform. For example, members of a Facebook community or any other social platform can have a physical location where their members meet periodically. Therefore, in the most basic sense, a group of people, regardless of their size, makes a community.   Geographical Location Individuals who constitute a community should have a physical point of convergence. Without this, a community is not formed. However, such points of convergence need not be fixed, as is the case with nomads.   Uniformity Running a thriving community implies uniformity or similarity among the members. Participants of any community are united by a mutual objective, and they all should work in line with that. They could be uniform in their methods, beliefs, language, or anything else that has brought them together.   Types Of Communities It's cool to say there are 3 main types of communities, which include urban, suburban, and rural communities; however. However, such a grouping could be referred to as being too condensed. In a broader sense, an individual, being the smallest unit of a group of people that constitute a community, will be used to categorize the different types of communities that exist.   Individual Of course, an individual cannot be referred to as a community; however, it is a part of a whole that makes up a community. The interaction between an individual and the community in which such a person exists makes them fit for consideration.   Microsystems Microsystems are an elaborate form of the previously discussed type and may be regarded as the closest group an individual interacts with. Examples of such communities include families and friends, schoolmates and teachers, coworkers, and team members. This classification depicts a group of people that an individual often engages with.   Organizations Organizations may be called an association of people or an institution, usually comprising a group of individuals working to achieve a common goal. In an organization, each department is a microsystem that can easily be influenced by different channels. Examples include

• your workplaces (e.g., schools, companies, 
• various religious centres and
• a defined community within your neighbourhood.

Localities Locality refers to a community where people live, and it usually varies in size. It could be a neighbourhood, an entire town, a city, or even a region. Each individual living in such a setting tends to have at least a common interest, ranging from their economic, political, and cultural views to the events that emerge from them.   Macrosystems This is the most important and broadest category of a community. Moreover, all other categories discussed are, in fact, a subset. Examples include cultures, beliefs, governments, societies and social systems. They include: Urban, Sub-urban & Rural. We will now discuss the meaning of each category.    Urban Community An urban community is located in a large city or town and is usually characterized by a large population (more than 2,500) and modern infrastructures that are typically absent from the rural community. Because of the high population, apartments and homes in urban areas are generally near due to the lack of space available. Urban residents and their goods are transported via various means, including subways, trains, buses, and taxis; some prefer walking. The average cost of rent in this type of community is exorbitant, so you should be prepared for that.   Suburban Community Otherwise known as a suburb, a suburban community is a residential area on the outskirts of an urban area. It is a low-density area within commuting distance of a city. Sometimes, it can be not easy to distinguish between urban and suburban communities due to their similarities. However, you should know that a suburban community is different, and one obvious difference is the compactness of the general environment. Moreover, the cost of housing here is relatively low compared to what it is in an urban community.   Rural Community The rural community is characterized by low population density and scanty homes located not too close to one another. Unlike urban and suburban communities, which are dominated by industrial and commercial buildings, the primary occupation of people living within the rural area is agriculture. However, agricultural produce is transported from here to the cities. Obviously, these people feed on fresh food directly from the source and tend to live longer than those living in the cities. Housing here is quite cheap and may cost nothing.   Assignment

• What is a community?
• How many types of communities have been listed in this module
• Why is a community important

  Chapter 3: Meaning and Concept of Community Support Main Content In a world characterized by technological advancement, the true essence of human connection remains highly crucial. Real and virtual communities weave together people who find empathy and joy in helping individuals with physical development, especially migrants, refugees, older people, and people with disabilities. But who are these true heroes, and what is their role in community support services?  These are none other than the community support workers who use the community support instrument to help society's most vulnerable. So, if you have a kind-hearted soul and the strength to assist society's needy or wish to learn more about the multifaceted roles of community support services and the workers in nurturing society, this module is for you!   Community Support and Social Services: Community support may be defined as an idea or concept in which a community, consisting of people working together, offers aid to individuals who might otherwise find it difficult to manage their daily lives independently, such as refugees, migrants, the elderly or disabled.  Such a community has no limits in assisting individuals. The help could be as basic as assisting neighbours in need with a random chore, providing directions, accompanying minors, grocery shopping, or as significant as managing the medications of the physically impaired.   The Importance of Community Support Service in Society:  The importance of community support workers is immeasurable. They are the true heroes and the backbone of society, helping individuals with their daily struggles particularly like migrants and refugees.   A few of the many benefits of community support services are as follows;

• Community support work is all about helping those in need, such as the less fortunate. This assistance connects individuals to society and strengthens our ties with the people, making the world a better place.
• Community support is a vital source of assistance in times of crisis, which improves the capacity to withstand storms and bounce back quickly.
• Community support can help you acquire the expertise and skills necessary for the professional path you might consider. It allows you to sharpen your skills in various workplace activities, such as teamwork, organizational skills, critical thinking, etc.
• Some community support services help individuals struggling with mental health.

  What is the role of community support? Responsibilities of community support workers include but are not limited to the following;

• Providing directions
• Accompanying minors
• Administering Medications
• Budget Making
• Providing Emotional support 
• Assist in daily chores.
• Provide physical support
• Cook meals for the community.
• Planning and implementing support programs 
• Strengthening social solidarity 
• Promote well being
• Aid in walking 
• Getting groceries for the vulnerable

  Primary Objectives of Community Support:

• Improvise an individual's quality of life.
• Creating an inclusive and supportive environment where individuals feel a sense of belonging to society and feel appreciated.
• Addressing social, economic and environmental issues that adversely affect an individual's lifestyle.
• Provide utmost physical, mental, and emotional support to its client.
• Strengthen ties within a community.

  The Significance of Fostering a Sense of Belonging: Fostering a sense of belonging in a society is crucial, considering that it helps an individual feel more inclusive rather than isolated due to being less fortunate. Some of the reasons for its significance are as follows;

• The role of community in mental health and emotional health is highlighted to be significant as it reduces depression and feelings of isolation caused by a specific disability.
• Individuals do not feel alone in times of crisis and know they have a support worker to count on in the community.
• A sense of belonging helps people to increase engagement by actively participating in community activities and contributing skills.

  Types of community support: Welcome to a comprehensive guide on community support services and initiatives. In this session, we will explore the world of community support, how to access vital networks and resources, how to promote community engagement and social inclusion, uncover funding options, and provide examples.   There are several ways a community supports an individual. It could be emotional, mental, financial, or physical. Some of the common types of support work include:   Emotional Support Many European Community support centers provide emotional support to individuals by being empathetic, sympathetic, a good listener, and an excellent consoler to those going through emotional difficulties. This helps an individual feel less lonely and isolated during a rough life phase. Emotional support could be as essential as a hug, a pat on the back, and simply listening to the client's concerns or as prominent as proper counselling or helping them through support groups.   Financial Support: Apart from providing physical or emotional aid to people in need, community support workers also tend to be very helpful to individuals facing financial constraints by helping them afford basic necessities through financial aid programs.   Esteem Support: Esteem or social support is provided to people to remind them that they are not alone and that they have an entire community that is aware of their positive qualities, such as expressing gratitude and praising their achievements.    Informational Support: Such workers consist of community support workers who provide guidance or advice to clients in order to tell them of potential next steps that may be successful. For example, they may educate a person about a subject by stating facts or other relevant data, elaborating on their own or a peer's personal experience, etc.   Healthcare Assistance: It consists of support for healthcare, such as access to medical care, managing medications, promoting preventives through health education programs, etc.   Education and Skill development services  Schools, educational programmes, and job training initiatives are critical for personal growth and self-sufficiency. Social workers should collaborate with academic institutions and vocational training centres to help individuals access these resources.   Addiction Recovery Services  Programmes offer addiction treatment, counselling, and recovery support. Social workers assist in making referrals to these services.   Food and Nutrition Support  Access to nutritious food is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being. Community support organisations, including food banks and meal programmes, play a vital role in offering this assistance.   Youth and Family Support  Services are available to support families and children in various capacities, such as parenting classes and after-school programmes, which contribute to the growth and development of young individuals. Social workers often engage with schools and youth-focused organisations to facilitate access to these programs.    Housing and Homelessness Support  Supported living offers an alternative to institutional care for individuals transitioning from nursing homes, psychiatric hospitals, or other congregate care settings. It allows them to regain autonomy and reintegrate into the community.   Who Provides Community Support?

• Volunteers
• Community Leaders
• Non-Profit Organizations 
• Businesses
• Educational Centers

 

Information on how to access community support networks and resources

Accessing community support networks and resources can be a pivotal aspect of social work. It allows individuals to receive the assistance they need to improve their quality of life. The following is a detailed guide on how social workers can effectively support those who draw on care and support and expand their network to enhance services.  

Assessment

Begin with a comprehensive assessment of the individual’s needs, strengths and goals. Understand their specific challenges, strengths, and aspirations. This assessment will be the foundation for identifying appropriate resources and support services.

Develop a personalised support plan.

  Establishing trust: Building trust is foundational to adequate support. Create a safe, non-judgmental environment where people feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, concerns, and preferences.   Active listening: Practice listening by giving your full attention, demonstrating empathy, and validating the person’s feelings and experiences. Show that you respect their autonomy and choices.  

Establish trust and rapport.

Build a trusting and supportive relationship with the individual. Ensure they feel comfortable discussing their needs and concerns with you. A solid client-worker relationship is critical to practical support.

Provide clear information

Provide clear information about the available resources and services offered by community support organisations, their rights and how to engage with support organisations effectively. Explain the benefits of accessing these resources and how they can improve the individual’s quality of life.  

Referrals

Based on the assessment, make referrals to relevant community support organisations. These referrals should align with the individual’s specific needs and goals. Discuss these referrals with the individual, obtain their consent, and explain the purpose and benefits.  

Resource Directory

Create and maintain a resource directory with a list of local support organisations, services, and contact information. This directory should be regularly updated and readily accessible.  

Advocacy

Act as an advocate for your clients in their interactions with community support organisations. This may involve assisting them with paperwork, applications, and communication. Your advocacy can help streamline the process and ensure that individuals receive the services they need.  

Accompany individuals to appointments.

Offer to accompany individuals to appointments with community support providers, especially during initial meetings. This can help reduce anxiety and ensure clear communication.  

Seek out funding and financial assistance.

Explore available funding options and financial support for accessing community support services. This may include grants, subsidies, or assistance programs.  

Regular follow-up

Maintain regular contact with those you support to assess their progress in accessing community support services. Address any challenges or concerns promptly.

Monitor and evaluate progress.

Continuously monitor and evaluate progress toward the individual’s goals. Adjust the support plan as necessary to ensure its effectiveness.  

Empower those who draw on care and support with information.

Please teach those who draw on care and support how to navigate the system and access resources independently. Give them the knowledge and skills needed to advocate for themselves.  

Networking

Establish professional connections with community support providers, including local government agencies, non-profit organisations, healthcare providers, and social service agencies. Attend meetings, conferences, and workshops to expand your network.

Collaboration with other professionals

Collaborate with other professionals, such as healthcare providers, therapists, and educators, to access resources that cater to holistic needs. Multidisciplinary collaboration can provide a more comprehensive approach to addressing individual needs. These organisations often have relationships with various community support networks and can facilitate resource access.

• Local service centres: Many communities have dedicated service centres as hubs for accessing various resources. These centres often have knowledgeable staff who can provide guidance on available services and how to access them.
• Government agencies: Local government agencies and social services departments are essential resources for community support. Social workers can liaise with these agencies to access various services, from housing assistance to disability support.
• Community-based events: Attend community-based events, fairs, and resource expos. These events often bring together a wide range of organisations offering information and support services, making them a valuable one-stop source for accessing resources.

 

Encourage peer support

Encourage individuals to participate in peer support groups to connect with others facing similar challenges. Peer support can be empowering and informative.

Utilise technology

Leverage technology to help individuals access community support resources. Show them how to use online directories, websites, and applications to find information and services. Many community support organisations have online platforms and websites where individuals can find information, request services, and communicate with providers.  

Online databases and directories

Utilise online databases and directories that compile information about community support services in your area. Websites and apps focusing on healthcare, social services, and community support can be helpful.  

Social services hotlines

Many regions have dedicated hotlines or helplines for social services. Encourage individuals to call these hotlines to enquire about available resources or seek guidance on accessing services.  

Maintain cultural sensitivity

Ensure your support is culturally sensitive and respectful of the individual’s background, beliefs, and preferences. Consider cultural norms and values in the support process.  

Stay informed

Continuously update your knowledge of available resources and community support organisations. Attend training, workshops, and conferences to stay informed about new developments and services.   By following these steps and providing continuous support, social workers can effectively empower individuals to access community support networks and resources. This approach helps individuals receive the necessary support to enhance their quality of life and achieve their goals. Remember that seeking support is a positive step toward personal growth and well-being.  

Overview of promoting community engagement and social inclusion.

Promoting community engagement and social inclusion is vital to community support, and social workers are instrumental in facilitating this process. These activities enhance individuals’ overall well-being, build stronger communities, and ensure everyone can participate fully in society.   Understand individual needs

• Start by thoroughly assessing the individual’s needs, interests, strengths, and challenges. Each person’s journey toward community engagement and social inclusion will be unique.
• This assessment will be the foundation for creating a personalised plan for community engagement and social inclusion.

  Develop a person-centred plan.

• Collaborate closely with the individual to create a person-centred plan that aligns with their goals and aspirations. This plan should include clear objectives related to community engagement and social inclusion.
• Ensure that the plan is flexible and adaptable to evolving needs.

  Access community resources

• Utilise your network of community resources, including local government programmes, non-profit organisations, and community centres. Identify relevant events, activities, and support services that align with the individual’s interests.

  Encourage participation in local activities.

• Coordinate medical care, therapy, vocational training, and recreational activities to minimise disruptions in the individual’s routine.
• Ensure that appointments and activities are scheduled to accommodate the person’s preferences and daily routines.

  Address barriers

• Identify and address any physical, psychological, or social barriers hindering participation. Ensure that individuals can access necessary accommodations, such as transportation, mobility aids, or specialised support services.

  Raise awareness and education.

• Advocate for the importance of social inclusion and community engagement within the community. Organise awareness campaigns, workshops, and seminars to educate the community about the value of inclusion and diversity.

  Promote education and skill development.

• Support individuals in accessing education and skill development opportunities. This can include enrolling in courses, workshops, or vocational training.
• Education can boost self-confidence, open doors to new experiences, and enhance social inclusion.

  Foster peer support

• Encourage individuals to join peer support groups to connect with others with similar experiences. Peer support can provide a sense of belonging, shared experiences, and valuable advice.

  Collaborate with local schools.

• Collaborate with local schools to create inclusive environments for students, particularly those with special needs. Working with educators can help ensure that all children feel welcome and included.

  Advocate for accessibility

• Be a vocal advocate for accessible infrastructure and accommodations within the community. This includes advocating for wheelchair ramps, accessible transportation, sign language interpretation, or sensory-friendly spaces.

  Cultural sensitivity

• Recognise and respect the diversity of cultural backgrounds in the community. Tailor your approach to ensure cultural sensitivity, and consider the unique cultural norms and values of the individuals you assist.

  Promote independence

• Encourage individuals to take on active roles and responsibilities within the community. This could involve participating in local committees, volunteering for community events, or leading initiatives.

  Regular progress evaluation

• Continuously assess the individual’s progress in community engagement and social inclusion goals. Adjust the support plan as needed to ensure continued growth.

  Establish support networks

• Connect individuals with mentors, peers, and allies who can provide ongoing support, guidance, and encouragement in their community engagement efforts.

Leverage technology

• Utilise technology and social media platforms to help individuals access virtual communities, online events, and resources that align with their interests and goals.

  Celebrate achievements

• Recognise and celebrate the individual’s achievements and milestones in community engagement and social inclusion. Positive reinforcement bolsters self-esteem and motivation.

  Engage with families and caregivers.

• Involve families and caregivers in the process and ensure they are informed and supportive of community engagement efforts. Their support is invaluable.

  By following these guidelines, social workers can empower individuals to become active and valued members of their communities, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. By promoting community engagement and social inclusion, social workers can also facilitate a more inclusive and diverse society.   Challenges in Providing Community Support:

• Time Management
• Complex Client Needs
• Lack of Resources
• Poor Communication
• Changing Needs of a Community

  Conclusion: In the end, social inclusion and community support are the backbone of the local community. Their emotional, physical, mental, and financial services to individuals help to create inclusivity in society and address challenges that lead to struggles in a person's daily life.    Assignments

• What best describes community support services?
• What are the challenges of community support services?
• Which of the following provides community support?

  Chapter 4: Asylum Seekers, Migrants, Immigrants and Refugees: Who Are They? Main Content Every child has the right to a future. For children and families living in conflict or suffering as a result of poverty, persecution or lack of opportunity–the future is not guaranteed. That’s why, each year, millions of people leave home in search of a safer, better tomorrow.   Asylum seekers, migrants, immigrants and refugees are all terms used to describe people on the move, including children. Learn about what makes each group different, Save the Children’s work – and how you can help.   Who Is an Asylum Seeker? Similar to a refugee, an asylum seeker is someone who may be in search of protection due to dangers in his or her home country. While every refugee is initially an asylum seeker, not every asylum seeker will ultimately be recognized as a refugee.   That’s because the right to be recognized as a refugee is determined by law after an asylum seeker has applied for protection in the country of refuge. However, the process of applying for asylum can take years. By the end of 2018, about 3.5 million people were awaiting a decision on their application for asylum.   Regardless of border restrictions, asylum seekers have a right to seek international protection and must not be returned, either directly or indirectly, to a country where their lives or safety are at risk.   Who Is a Migrant? While the global definition of the word “refugee” was recognized in the Geneva Convention, no such universally accepted definition for “migrant” exists.   Traditionally, a migrant is considered a person who has left their home by choice and in search of a better opportunity. Because conflict or persecution did not force them from home, a migrant is not considered a refugee or asylum seeker.   While migration to a different country or city within a person’s own country can promise the chance of a better life, education or job, it is not without risk. Children on the move can become highly vulnerable to discrimination, violence, abuse and exploitation during their journey and at their destination.   Who Is an Immigrant? A person who comes to a country with the intention of taking up permanent residence is called an immigrant. While many immigrants choose to make a permanent life in a new country, they are free to return home as well.   Who Is a Refugee? Refugees are people who are seeking a safe haven after being forced to flee violence, persecution or war. Worldwide, there are nearly 25.9 million refugees, over half of whom are children. Refugee children are among the most vulnerable in the world. Every day, they risk loss of some kind, including the loss of the future that every child deserves. Child refugees live in constant fear, uncertainty and instability. Where will their next meal come from? Where will they sleep?    How will child refugees survive? Child refugees desperately need protection from a wide range of violence, including abuse, exploitation and neglect. Child marriage remains a growing concern among refugee children as well. The total global refugee population is the highest it's ever been. These stats are important to note as well: 

• A refugee spends an average of 17 years of his or her life in exile.
• Approximately four million school-age refugees are currently out of school.
• As many as one child refugee in five has a disability.
• Two-thirds of all refugees worldwide come from just five countries: Syria, Afghanistan, South Sudan, Myanmar and Somalia.
• Lebanon and Jordan host more refugees than any other countries in the world.
• The number of refugees in Bangladesh has increased more than three-fold since 2017 as a result of the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar.
• A third of refugees -- 6.7 million people--are hosted by the world's poorest countries.

While conflicts around the world continue to displace children of all ages, some organization like Save the Children is working around the clock to ensure refugee children and their families are supported in their basic human needs.   Assignment Who is a refugee? How do child refugees survive?