Spotlight on Peace of Mind North Ayrshire
In our newest spotlight, we’re joined by Jim Withers, Director of Peace of Mind and Board Member at Social Enterprise Scotland. Peace of Mind is a programme which supports and assists disabled people, people with long-term illness or other life limiting health conditions to them happier and better connected with their local community.
What does your social enterprise do?
Peace of Mind is an innovative programme aimed at reducing social exclusion and isolation with particular emphasis on people who do not receive statutory services but still need support. We focus on matching people with experiences based on their outcomes and interests, rather than their disability or diagnosis.
How do you do it?
We offer tailored experiences for the individuals and groups based on their preferences and aspirations. This can include anything from developing “independent living” skills such as managing money and preparing healthy meals, to attending the gym and going to art galleries and museums.
Why should someone buy/use your product/services? What are the benefits and what makes your organisation unique?
We are skilled in supporting individuals to develop a “Person-Centred Outcomes Plan” using our unique YOUR Plan™ and Well-Being assessment tools. We work to support individuals with shared interests, hobbies and barriers to come together to achieve shared outcomes and goals in their community.
By “Pooling” budgets, groups of individuals can employ their own support worker or get more hours of support from their existing SDS budget or their personal income – and “achieve more with less.” As the groups are self-funding, they decide who they employ; what they do; when they do it and how it’s done.
What is your personal motivation?
To promote the benefits of social enterprises in all communities.
What is the current focus for your social enterprise?
Our primary focuses currently are our “story so far” podcast and open information days. The podcast, with support from Ayrshire Media, will follow and evidence the launch, development, and progress of the program in North Ayrshire and share the experiences of the people taking part. The open information days are organised across a region where people interested in being part of Peace of Mind and local organisations can meet, discuss, and get on board.
What exciting things do you have coming up?
The launch of the program in Moray, and further development in other areas.
Who do you want to work with more?
Local people. Local organisations and local authorities.
What’s your biggest challenge?
Our biggest challenge currently is working on changing people’s mindsets surrounding social enterprises.
Where do you see your organisation in 5 years?
We would aim for Peace of Mind to be recognised in all regions of Scotland and beyond.
What top tips would you give to other social enterprises?
Don’t take no as an answer.
For more information about Peace of Mind North Ayrshire, please visit their website and make sure to follow them on LinkedIn, Twitter/X, and Facebook.
Want to read more Member Spotlights? Visit our blog. If you’d like to be featured, please email membership@socialenterprise.scot.