Gloriously Ordinary Sundays - 22nd March 2026
Ciaran celebrating his birthday this week
If you know me at all, then you’ll know that, ‘What would it take?’ is my very favourite question. I’m not much interested in, ‘Is it possible?’
After last week’s blog, I was keen to quickly work out a way to help Ciaran explain to anyone supporting him who all the fabulous people in his life are and how they fit together.
Just a reminder, this was because we realised that paid people in Ciaran’s life come and go, AND it is really important that paid people know that a critical part of their role is to support Ciaran’s friendships and relationships. It’s the crux of Test Four.
I wanted something…
That is really visual (because Ciaran is)
That looks good (because so much in social care isn’t pretty!)
That Ciaran and his circle can organise and keep up to date
That can easily be added to as people come and go (that’s life)
That works with existing recording keeping
….oh, and I wasn’t keen to spend anyone’s money!
I had an a-ha moment! Me and Bryony (well, Rosie) found a fab website as part of our Gloriously Ordinary Co-production programme. We wanted everyone who is part of the programme to be able to share the things they are good at and get to know each other, and we found a great website called Padlet - www.padlet.com
It's free, and it’s really easy to use – I get no commission, I promise!!
Ciaran and Katie came up with a list of questions that we want everyone to answer. We might add more at a later date, but this felt like a great starting point.
How I know Ciaran
How long I have known Ciaran
Where I live (just the town)
Something I love about Ciaran
Things I enjoy doing with Ciaran
You can see an image of mine and Bryony’s entries here, and they display as a beautiful wall or poster. The weblink will go into the digital support plan, there is an app for Ciaran’s phone, and Bob’s your great uncle’s brother’s son.
On Thursday night at Ciaran’s birthday party, we made a list of all the people he wants to include – 26 for now. Again, it’s easy to send a new person a link and add them. Ciaran has everyone’s contact details in his phone, so there is no issue about asking people to share potentially confidential info.
So, you’re welcome – why don’t you have a play and set one up for someone you know? Shout if you need any help.
PS. Did you see? The Gloriously Ordinary Sundays Podcast episode 15 is here. I indulge myself a little bit with some nostalgia, going back to the time when my two were at school and reflecting on what great inclusion looked and felt like to us as a family. I'll share some lovely memories of The Girl's experience, and you'll hear Ciaran talking about his own memories. Have a listen, and we'd love to hear what you think!