Problem
Briony is a 22 -year-old woman living at home and studying medical imaging at university. Briony works part-time to support herself while studying and adores her brother Jason, who has autism. Jason is 15 years old and has a strong bond with his sister. They spend a lot of time together. Briony is now the primary carer for her autistic brother Jason. Briony has had to assume the caring role, as their parents were suddenly killed in a car crash. Briony couldn't bear the thought of Jason going into care, and decided to care for him herself. As a result of the daily pressures of caring for Jason, Briony's own health has suffered. Briony is thinking of dropping out of university. She feels very isolated having to cope with everything her own, with little support. Briony knew she needed help. She has limited support from extended family as they all live interstate, and could only stay for short bursts. Briony speaks with her local council and joins a carers network that offers a range of services designed to make the role for her as a carer a little easier. Briony was given access to respite services, and to a range of information, education, advocacy, counselling and telephone support as well as social and recreational activities. Briony is now able to continue studying and while accepting help caring for her brother.
1. Assess and respond to the needs of clients and their carers or families
2. Explain how you would respond to their needs in a real-life situation.
3. How will you work with your client and gain familiarity with pre-existing relationships between the client and their family and carer, whilst beginning to develop your own relationship with the client
4. How will you recognise and respond to any problems within the relationships you observe, or are involved with the client
5. Describe the problems that you faced and the specific strength-based solutions you applied to support the client and /or families or carers.