At the different facilities of Fondazzjoni Suret il-Bniedem, the overall mission is the same and Dar Leopoldo, Dar Teresa Spinelli, Dar Victoria, Dar Franġisk and Dar Imelda u Paul Debono all operate with the same ethos.
All facilities have a common service-framework that ensures that we not only provide a safe space through the provision of a shelter or accommodation, but that we truly provide a good quality service that instils hope and empowerment in our residents to effectively deal with their circumstances and attain as much skills as possible to lead a dignified life.
All services operate over three phases, known as the key performance indicators.
Phase 1 – Assessment and Establishment
Referrals to Fondazzjoni Suret il-Bniedem are centralised through the Intake and Assessment team who conducts an initial assessment to establish that our services can cater for the holistic needs (medical, physical, social and emotional) of the referred person. It is in this way that we ensure that we not only provide accommodation but that we will be able to facilitate a meaningful placement. After admission the resident is supported to establish himself or herself within the home structure and daily routine. The professional team assists the resident to have a clearer picture of his or her situation within the new environment including the community that he or she will be residing in. The principle of individualisation is applied from the beginning according to the needs of the person.
Phase 2 – Interventions and Action Plans
This next phase is critical as it is the period when a care plan is agreed upon between the professional team and the resident. This care plan will prioritise the way forward by identifying needs, difficulties, setting realistic and attainable goals and agreeing on an action plan to achieve the desired goals or objectives. This may include improving daily living skills, personal care, repairing social and family networks, budgeting skills, recognising further educational priorities, preparing and engaging in employment and finding alternative housing. Other professionals/organisations and/or agencies may be identified to further assist the resident. During this process the team supports, encourages and facilitates through various interventions with the strong belief that despite the difficulties that the resident may encounter he or she can reach his potential. The services use a system of case reviews every six to eight weeks with the participation of all professionals, the resident and his or her family members (if appropriate and relevant). Case load management meetings are held bi-monthly where the team evaluates progress systematically.
Evaluation and Re-Integration
Once it is determined that the resident has reached his or her goals and is ready (health-wise, psychological and emotionally) to move on, efforts are directed towards a termination plan. This is done after it is also determined that termination is suitable for the needs of the resident. At this stage the professional team liaises also with the other significant members of the person (including other professionals) who will continue supporting the person in the community if this is suitable for the person concerned.
It is salient to point out that some different methods and tools do exist between the shelters (that is, Dar Teresa Spinelli and Dar Leopoldo) and the community mental-health services (Dar Victoria, Dar Franġisk and Dar Imelda) and whilst the overall framework is the same, the service-provision is also designed to cater for the particular objectives of the specific service.
The Foundation strives to provide the best quality of service to the residents and any interventions are carried out in the best interest of the residents with the aim of endeavouring their wellbeing and dignity. The residents play a crucial role in co-creating with us the best possible individual pathways for their short-term and long-term wellbeing. The residents’ participation in creating their own plans whilst we walk the planned journey together with them is at the core of our service-provision.
“The success of our services is driven by the collective efforts of all – be it our beneficiaries, staff, volunteers, donors and other supporters. By working together we create a network of trust and shared responsibility that amplifies the reach and sustainability of our work. Our initiatives are shaped also by the voices of our residents because their participation is at the heart of our work. Finally we hold ourselves responsible to the highest standards of services, constantly reviewing and improving our processes to ensure they meet the evolving needs of our community”.
Sarah Bondin – General Manager