When you employ your own Support Worker through Living My Way, one of the benefits is being able to communicate with them directly. This means you don’t have to rely on someone else to pass messages back and forth. Instead, you and your Support Worker can build a relationship based on trust, respect, and clear communication.
Good communication doesn’t just happen. It’s something you create together. Here’s how to make the most of it.
Start with a conversation about communication
Every person is different in how they prefer to communicate. Some people like regular text messages, while others prefer a quick phone call or an email. The same goes for you and your Support Workers – you both may have preferences. That’s why the first step is to sit down and talk about it together.
You could ask questions like:
- How do you prefer I contact you between shifts?
- What’s the best time of day to reach you?
- Are you okay with text messages, or do you prefer phone calls?
- How quickly can we expect to respond to each other?
During this conversation, you as the employer can communicate your preferences and expectations too. By setting these expectations early, you both know what works best. It helps avoid any misunderstandings, and it shows respect for each other’s time.
Select your preferred communication options
Once you’ve agreed on preferences, you can choose the tools that suit both of you. Here are some options that many people find helpful:
1. Text messaging
Quick, simple, and easy. Texting is great for short updates, confirming shift times, or letting your Support Worker know if plans have changed.
Example: “Just confirming you’re still good for tomorrow at 10am?”
2. Phone calls
Best for conversations that need a little more detail or for when tone matters. A quick chat can often clear up something faster than typing it out.
Example: Talking through the type of support you’d like during an outing, or explaining a change in your routine.
3. Email
Useful for longer messages or when you need to share more detail. Some people like email for planning the week ahead, sending documents, or keeping a record of conversations.
Example: “Here’s a list of the appointments I’d like your help with this month.”
4. Messaging Apps
If you’re comfortable with apps, these can be another option. They make it easy to send quick updates or share things like photos of where to meet.
Tip: Always agree first on which apps you’ll use. Not everyone wants to mix personal and work communication on the same platform.
5. Communication books
For those who prefer a written option, a notebook or diary can work well. You and your Support Worker can write notes for each other to read before the next shift. This can be especially useful if verbal or digital communication isn’t always accessible.
Keep your communication positive
Clear communication is about more than the tools you use. It’s also about how you use them. Here are some tips to keep your conversations positive and effective:
- Be clear and specific
Try to say exactly what you need. Instead of “Can you help me tomorrow?”, try “Can you please help me with shopping tomorrow at 11am?” - Respect each other’s time
Agree on reasonable response times. It may not be realistic to expect an immediate reply every time. - Keep it professional but friendly
Your Support Worker is there to support you, and having a positive, respectful tone makes the relationship stronger. - Write things down if needed
If you’ve agreed on important details, it can help to keep a record (in a diary, text, or email) so nothing is forgotten.
Enjoy the benefits
One of the most empowering parts of the Employ Your Own Support Worker model at Living My Way is the ability to communicate directly. Here’s why it matters:
- Clarity: Messages don’t get lost or misunderstood by going through a third party.
- Flexibility: You can make changes quickly if something comes up, like needing to move an appointment.
- Stronger relationships: Direct communication helps build trust and understanding between you and your Support Worker.
- Choice and control: You’re not waiting on someone else to pass on your message. You’re in charge of how and when you communicate.
This direct connection is what makes the relationship personal, supportive, and efficient.
Communicating directly with your Support Worker may feel new at first, especially if you’re used to having messages passed through a service provider. But with practice, you’ll find it becomes easier, just like it did for Steve Peterson, a 38-year-old doctor, and local city councillor living in Orange with his wife and two sons.
“Over the last six years, I’ve had quite the journey when it comes to managing my own care and Support Workers. It hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve found taking a more hands-on approach has given me the flexibility and control I need to live the life I want.
I now manage a wide range of shifts myself, which means I directly coordinate with my Support Workers.
For anyone thinking about taking a more active role in managing their own care… it’s crucial to build a strong network of Support Workers and maintain open communication, and I’m proud of the progress and the relationships I’ve built.”
Remember, this is your support relationship. Being able to talk openly with your Support Worker about your needs, preferences, and plans is at the heart of living your way.
By starting with a conversation about preferences, choosing the right tools, and keeping communication clear and respectful, you’ll set yourselves up for success.
Want to learn more? Let’s chat.
If you’d like to learn more about our Employ Your Own Support Worker Service, please reach out to the Living My Way team today. You can call us on (02) 8525 4000, email us via operations@lmwl.org.au or complete our online enquiry form.
We’re here to help you navigate the process, answer your questions, and support you to take the next step toward living life your way.