Tony’s relationship circle
Now look at Tony’s relationship circle.
Tony lives on his own in a one-bedroom apartment. His wife died many years ago and his only son Calvin lives in another part of the country and rarely visits his dad. Over recent years, Tony has become reluctant to leave his apartment and is becoming increasingly lonely and isolated. He often thinks about what could have been and occasionally tells his support worker, Michelle, that he longs to see his friends and family again.
Family:
Calvin:
Tony’s son Calvin lives in another part of the country and hasn’t visited his dad for over two years. They talk on the phone every few months.
Friends and unpaid support:
David:
Tony used to play in a jazz band. His old band friend David still lives in the area, although it’s been a long time since they’ve seen each other.
Paid supporters:
Mina:
Mina is Tony’s home care worker. She calls in once a week to make sure that Tony is ok.
Michelle:
Michelle is Tony’s favorite support worker, and someone he confides in.
Dr. Owusu:
Dr Owusu is Tony’s family doctor who sees him every now and then.
Ania:
Ania is a support worker who sometimes sees Tony, and someone Tony is still getting to know.
Think about…
Compare Tony’s relationship circle with the one that you created for yourself earlier on in this module.
- How many people do you have in your friends and family sections compared to Tony?
- What about the other sections?
- How would you feel if the majority of people in your relationship circle were in that outer ring, or in the paid support section?