Be person-centred

Being person-centred is at the core of this Jigsaw. We recommend people are placed at the centre of the support and provision you provide, and that they are treated as a person first and foremost.

As you work through this Jigsaw, we encourage you to think about how your work can support people inside and outside your organisation.

We suggest using the following five principles of being person-centred.

1. Involve your people across the organisation when making decisions about how to support them with their mental health.

Don't assume you know what will work for them, it is much better to ask.

2. Acknowledge that your people are the experts in their life and they can help you to understand what will best support their mental wellbeing.

3. Consider and take into account people's life experiences, as well as their age, gender, culture, heritage, community and accessibility.

4. Consider being more flexible within your workplace, club, venues, sessions and community to suit the different needs and priorities of your people.

5. Consider your people's support networks when looking at provision and to help you embed mental health across your organisation.

CARE

Using the acronym CARE can help you to promote good mental health.

CARE can help your organisation be person-centred, not just for people with mental health problems but everyone.

Watch the CARE animation or access the infographic to find out more.

Coaching & customer skills

Be welcoming and create an environment where people feel able to talk about their mental health.
Offer alternative ways of participating in your physical activity and/or make adjustments.
Ask for feedback.

Awareness

Ask how people are feeling and pay attention to what they say.
Use your observation and listening skills to 'hear' what they are saying and ask how they want to be supported.

Respect

Be respectful of everyone and avoid intrusive questions.
Treat everyone fairly and make yourself available to listen.
Treat any information in confidence*.

Empathy

Learn about mental health from reliable sources.
Listen and seek understanding, and don't feel pressured to find answers.
See the individual, not their diagnosis.

* You should always discuss breaking confidentiality with the person as there may be times when this is necessary.

Make a commitment

Track your journey

Involve people meaningfully

Integrate mental health

Be person- centred

Connect & collaborate

Improve knowledge & confidence

Champion mental health

Spot, support & signpost