3.2. Outline ways in which an activity provider can contribute to an activity-based model of care

This guide will help you answer 3.2. Outline ways in which an activity provider can contribute to an activity-based model of care.

An activity-based model of care places meaningful activity at the centre of support, rather than seeing it as an add-on or afterthought. In this model, engagement, stimulation, and relationship-building are part of everyday life and are valued just as much as physical or medical care.

An activity provider has a key role in supporting this approach. They work alongside care workers to ensure activities are planned, accessible, and embedded within daily routines.

Assessing Individual Interests and Needs

One important way an activity provider contributes is by getting to know each person. They:

• Speak with people about their likes, dislikes, talents, and backgrounds
• Use life history or “about me” forms
• Involve families or friends when possible
• Watch and listen for non-verbal signals in those who find communication hard

By learning what matters to each person, the activity provider can match activities to individuals. This personal approach increases motivation and participation.

Planning and Creating Activity Programmes

An activity provider designs a varied programme that fits the needs and interests across the service. This involves:

• Providing a balance of group, one-to-one, and self-directed activities
• Including creative, physical, cognitive, and sensory activities
• Allowing flexibility so that people can choose what, when, and how they take part
• Linking themes to seasons, cultural festivals, or resident ideas

A well-planned programme shows respect for everyone’s uniqueness and makes activity a normal and expected part of care.

Facilitating Group and Individual Activities

The provider doesn’t just create the plan—they also deliver or lead sessions. This involves:

• Running group clubs, games, or discussions
• Offering one-to-one activities for those not ready for groups
• Adapting delivery for those with sensory loss, dementia, or mobility issues
• Using prompts, objects, or music to support participation

Flexible and responsive leadership ensures everyone can take part in a way that works for them.

Encouraging Participation and Overcoming Barriers

The provider finds creative ways to help people overcome social, confidence, or physical barriers. They might:

• Break activities into smaller steps
• Use visual or sensory aids
• Offer reassurance and extra encouragement
• Work with staff to identify and support hesitant individuals

By reducing obstacles, the provider gives more people access to social and recreational experiences.

Supporting Staff and Sharing Expertise

An activity provider often helps care staff build their own activity skills. This includes:

• Sharing ideas and resources for embedding activities into care
• Demonstrating techniques, such as reminiscence or simple games
• Training colleagues on person-centred engagement
• Encouraging all staff to get involved, making activity everyone’s responsibility

When staff are confident, activity becomes part of all care—not just a specialist role.

Promoting Inclusion and Diversity

An activity provider ensures programmes include every person, regardless of age, culture, ability, or beliefs. They:

• Celebrate important festivals and cultural days
• Offer a wide range of activity styles
• Adapt plans for those who find it hard to join group sessions
• Seek feedback to improve inclusion

Diverse activity reduces isolation and ensures no one is left out.

Communicating with Families and Community

A provider can make the activity programme visible to families and the wider community by:

• Inviting relatives to take part in activities or special events
• Sharing photos, newsletters, or updates on what people have enjoyed
• Building links with local schools, groups, or volunteers
• Arranging visits and outings into the community

This approach supports connections beyond the care setting and enriches lives.

Recording and Evaluating Activities

Keeping accurate records is a big part of the provider’s role. They:

• Note attendance and participation
• Record likes, dislikes, or suggestions
• Look for patterns in engagement or changes in wellbeing
• Use this information to improve future planning

Reviewing outcomes and feedback leads to better activities and higher quality care.

Advocating for the Importance of Activity

The activity provider helps create a culture that values meaningful occupation as much as physical or personal care. They:

• Highlight the benefits of activity to staff, managers, families, and people receiving care
• Encourage a positive attitude towards participation
• Model the social, emotional, and cognitive benefits in their own approach
• Speak up for individuals who may be overlooked or need extra help

This advocacy moves the focus to what people can do and enjoy, not just what they need help with.

Supporting Transitions and Change

Major changes, like moving into care, can be difficult. Activity providers help people settle in by:

• Offering welcome activities and introductions
• Pairing new arrivals with buddies
• Listening to worries and offering distraction and comfort
• Supporting ongoing routines and personal interests

This gentle support speeds adjustment and helps people form early connections.

Examples of Contribution

Ways an activity provider supports an activity-based model of care include:

• Drawing up individual activity care plans
• Running daily group and one-to-one sessions
• Training staff to embed activities into care tasks
• Coordinating external visitors and outings
• Creating inclusive, accessible spaces
• Setting up displays celebrating participation and achievements
• Gathering and acting on feedback from people, families, and staff

Final Thoughts

An activity provider is central to an activity-based model of care. Through planning, delivery, encouragement, and teamwork, they make activity a daily, meaningful experience for all. This approach improves social contact, independence, physical health, mood, and quality of life—placing active living at the heart of care.