What is a Circle of Support?
A Circle of Support is a group of people, family, friends, neighbours, and allies who come together around a disabled person to help them imagine, plan, and live the life they choose. These circles are built on trust, shared commitment, and the belief that everyone has something valuable to contribute.
Circles of Support reflect the Enabling Good Lives principles by:
- Supporting self-determination and personal vision.
- Encouraging ordinary life outcomes through natural supports.
- Building strengths-based networks that grow over time.
Why Circles Matter
Circles of Support align with Care Matters and EGL values:
- Community – building strong, inclusive relationships.
- Self-direction – supporting people to lead their own lives.
- Future-focused planning – preparing for change and continuity.
Circles help:
- Strengthen social networks.
- Support goal-setting and action.
- Share responsibility across a wider group.
- Build resilience for the future.
What Does a Circle Look Like?
Each Circle is unique. It can be:
- Small or large
- Formal or informal
- Short-term or ongoing
What matters is that everyone involved commits to supporting the person at the centre in meaningful and sustainable ways.
Circles often:
- Meet regularly to listen, share ideas, and problem-solve.
- Help the person explore opportunities for learning, work, relationships, and contribution.
- Offer practical help, like transport, advocacy, or connecting with services.
- Celebrate progress and adapt plans as life changes.
Who Is It For?
Circles of Support can be created around disabled people of any age. Whether someone is just starting out, navigating a transition, or planning for later life, a Circle can help bring clarity, connection, and confidence.
“Circles of Support are a great way for friends and family to work together to support the person to set goals and put plans into action. They bring together people who care and want to help build a good life.”
Embedded in Enabling Good Lives
Circles of Support are a practical way to live out the Enabling Good Lives vision:
The person leads their own planning and decision-making.
Circles can start at any age and evolve over time.
Support is tailored to the person’s goals, strengths, and preferences.
Circles help people participate in everyday life, relationships, and community.
Circles often draw on natural supports before formal services.
Everyone’s contribution is valued and respected.
Circles are flexible, accessible, and community-driven.
Explore More Resources
- Support and Services
Find tools and guidance to help you build and sustain support networks. - Resource Archive
Browse articles, guides, and planning tools for carers and disabled people.
Below is a manual to starting your own circle of support.
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