Exploring the Culture of Social Care through the Lens of “Alice in Wonderland"
The tale of Alice in Wonderland beautifully mirrors the lessons, behaviours, and culture that shape the Social Care sector, a connection we explored at Evolve Care Group by welcoming teams from across the Southwest into our Care Academy to learn and rediscover themselves, their "why's," and the cultural foundations that define our community.
In our training room, we delve into the essence of our shared culture within the social care sector and explore how the significant themes and values in Alice's story often reflect our collective ethos. An inspired, innovative, and passionate team gives impactful and meaningful care, but at its core, this begins with a strong, supportive, and enriching culture.
Muchness
In the realm of Social Care, where the responsibilities and complexities can sometimes dim the vibrant essence within, the concept of "muchness" is significant to us being true to ourselves and to our community culture. Defined as "greatness in quantity or degree," muchness conveys the full-hearted abundance of hope, joy, and imagination that individuals bring to the world. This notion is not just about personal qualities but speaks to the collective energy and enthusiasm that fuels a thriving culture.
As we navigate our mission to change Social Care for the better, encountering obstacles and overcoming challenges, the resonance of Alice in Wonderland becomes more apparent. Life, much like Alice’s adventures, can indeed be challenging, filled with moments of self-criticism and disappointments. These moments often lead to the gradual fading of our muchness. Yet, the lessons from Wonderland offer a beacon of guidance, urging us to tap into the resilience, creativity, and cultural values that reside in each of us and in the fabric of our shared community.
Tools, Symbols and Transformation
The parallel between Alice's journey and the Social Care sector becomes evident when we consider the tools at our disposal. During our training days, we explore these tools, drawing inspiration from Alice's story to deepen our understanding of the cultural "toolbox" available to us. Much like Alice reaching out for the supportive elements around her, Social Care practitioners utilise a cultural "toolbox" that includes systems, processes, and the collaborative efforts of a vibrant community. The symbolism of a map as an example we use in Alice in Wonderland emphasises the shared journey we undertake in Social Care—a journey guided by universal values of inclusion, compassion, and cultural understanding that transcend borders and lead to responsive, inclusive care.
Doors, as symbols of accessibility, welcome, and inclusion, hold significant parallels with the Social Care ethos. The resilience demonstrated by Alice as she persists in finding the right key for the right door reflects the persistence and perseverance embedded within our culture. This culture, grounded in support, patience, and collaboration, empowers our community members to confidently navigate challenges and achieve their goals. It reinforces the idea that through shared determination and cultural strength, there isn’t anything we can’t achieve together.
The "eat me" cake and "drink me" bottle in Alice in Wonderland represent changes in size and transformation. In the context of Social Care, these symbols echo the adaptability and flexibility required to provide person-centred care, a cornerstone of our culture. This cultural adaptability, paired with responsiveness and a personalised touch, allows us to meet the unique needs of individuals, emphasising the evolving and dynamic nature of Social Care. Just as Alice transforms to navigate her surroundings, our culture encourages growth, creativity, and the flexibility to address the diverse needs of our community.
When Alice is told that stating "you could paint the roses red" is an odd thing to say, it mirrors the societal scepticism or resistance faced when challenging norms. Similarly, in Social Care, there are moments where advocating for individual preferences or questioning established systems might face resistance. In our Social Care community, our culture promotes innovation, encourages individuals to "paint the roses red," and fosters an environment where creativity and individuality thrive alongside standards that ensure safety and well-being. This highlights the delicate balance between adhering to essential standards and embracing the unique preferences of those in care—a balance that is central to our culture.
As individuals within the Social Care sector embark on their unique journeys, the cultural lessons inspired by Alice in Wonderland serve as a guiding framework. Rediscovering muchness is not only an individual endeavour but a shared cultural commitment—a commitment to embracing creativity, resilience, and adaptability while fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. Our collective culture is one of empowerment, where every team member is inspired to make the seemingly impossible possible.
Our one true message remains: strive for the seemingly impossible and, in the spirit of Alice, make six impossible thoughts seem possible before breakfast. Together, as a community bound by culture, we can achieve extraordinary things.
To read more about #TheAliceYears please click here, or to hear about career opportunities within our Evolve community please contact us here.
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