It struck a chord with the learning from the Clore Programme to date. We have been looking at our own personal strengths and the difference we would like to make and have been developing a plan with the team to achieve those goals. A very important element I am learning about Leadership is that you won't get anywhere unless you look after yourself and develop your own skills, competencies and emotional resilience.
This week I have been thinking a lot about finding a coach. Earlier in the week we explored what type of coach we might benefit from but to be honest I'm not sure I'm any clearer! I coach (if that's the right word to describe it) a lot in my role working with social entrepreneurs but it feels entirely different being coached. A coach can play an important part in being that sounding board and challenger that you need to give you the kick up the backside when things don't go according to plan. So, I am hoping I manage to get it right.
More importantly though, I wanted to write today about an article I read earlier about rising homelessness amongst women. I have often wondered why so many people who are homeless are termed 'hidden homeless' because they are sofa surfing or in unstable accommodation. Homelessness has never seemed hidden to me, perhaps because of my own experiences but I'm pleased to see some reporting and highlighting of the issue.
The problem of Homelessness is, I suspect, from my years of working with individuals and families presenting as homeless a bigger problem than is reported in official figures (and those are bad). The difficulty with the argument for improving services tackling homelessness amongst women is this isn't where the root of the problem lies. Men and women who approach the local authority for help if they are homeless are assessed against priority need criteria. Instead of determining whether we have a 'duty' to house someone can we not focus energy on finding solutions? I do not believe anyone who is living on the streets should be told they are none priority. Homeless people are just like anyone else. With rising unemployment, welfare changes and the cost of living increasing most people could find themselves homeless- and in fact according to Joseph Rowntree Trust 1 in 10 do. How would you expect to be treated if you found yourself in these awful circumstances?
You can read it in full here : http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/the-hidden-homeless-government-urged-to-help-vulnerable-women-who-sleep-rough-9161521.html
The causes of homelessness are complex but turning people away just compound the issue. It's time we took a good look at the way we are helping (or hindering) people to help themselves.
