Who else did we speak to in 2023?

63 people shared who they connect to the most in their work, representing a snapshot of connected life in Plymouth.

https://wordart.com/5z5h5h8wx5m9/plymouth-network

We shared considerable frustration in the current system, particularly around data sharing, waiting lists, connections, volunteers, and funding. We were concerned that people did not have the support to access services because of language, education, or cultural barriers; and we felt that engagement is a skill that needs special capabilities and training.

https://wordart.com/d6oq19hi01i7/weaknesses-in%20plymouth%20system
https://wordart.com/kgl15v35lpc1/emerging-trends

However, when we considered emergent trends, we were on the whole much more optimistic. There is greater diversity in our relationships, better compassion and respect, and awareness of what people are experiencing. We are building partnerships and understand the need to fund networking and connections. We have embraced the cost of living crisis by doing more with less, increasing access to free and low-cost food and the great outdoors. We understand that patients want relationships and long-term support in community settings, and we have a desire to champion little heroes and pay community members to properly engage with our sectors.

We were concerned about staffing, burnout, long waiting lists, and higher criteria, as well as racism, social poverty, and lack of adequate homes—and the mental health crisis that affects everyone, staff included.