# Circle ToC

The Circle dimension in Equal Care’s model plays a foundational role in starting, supporting and sustaining care teams at a local level. Through a sociocratic structure and deep community integration, Circles shape how support is organised and experienced by everyone involved.

The map below reveals the links between Circle-specific outputs and the outcomes we aim to achieve.

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*You can also use the focus button to zoom in on a specific output and its connection to outcomes (e.g. image below).*
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<figure><img src="/files/AbOG3kI7VJslp3rivGa2" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

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* Multi-stakeholder service evaluation measures the social climate, individual well-being and quality of life of Circle members.
* Circles recruit locally to support locally.
* Key roles for Circles to start and support teams are shared amongst Circle members as “Circle Hats.”
* Circles resource teams with local volunteers.
* Circles connect teams to local resources and community networks that can enrich the quality of lives of team members.
* Teams are started, supported and ended through local Circles.
* Circles operate semi-autonomously from the wider co-op, with distributed decision-making authority.
* Key roles or “Circle Hats” are nominated by Circle members sociocratically.

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{% tab title="Outcomes linked to Circle activity" %}

* Care workers feel more secure in their lives and livelihoods
* People have the freedom to decide upon and co-produce the care together
* More trusting, equitable relationships
* People giving and receiving support make use of local community spaces to meet peers, hold gatherings, and self-organise
* Care workers grow in expertise
* Care and support meet more of people’s quality of life needs
* Stronger community networks and partnerships are fostered
* Local Circles reflect diverse membership and collaborate with aligned organisations
* People getting support are more connected to the people, places and things they care about
* People require less paid care and support over the long term
* Team-based learning groups, peer supervision and coaching enhance people’s skills and knowledge
* Care workers feel supported and trusted
* Care and support exist in greater abundance
* More people feel the power balance is right
* Support is flexible, organised directly between people and adapted to the specific needs of people receiving care
* People providing support can identify and address potential issues faster, leading to fewer mistakes
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