The 1-1 work has been set up on the basis of gently building a working relationship and then focussing in on what is needed by a process of review, discussion and resource sharing. Below is a summary of this has worked in practice:

• Enquiry to Pain Association Head Office who send contact details to the Lead Trainer

• Initial phone call made to help them to get to know us and vice versa. This is also helpful to explain what is on offer, address any misunderstanding and hopefully find a match of what they want and what we can realistically provide.

• Building understanding and rapport starts in the first contact and is a vital and central on-going process.

• In the first full session we usually discuss your situation in detail and try to get a sense of your needs.

• Appropriate handouts are provided for reading and homework. These are directly relevant to the topic being worked eg. Pacing. ‘Background information’ is also sent covering topics that will help to improve the bigger picture and address the real issues.

• Relaxation downloads or CD’s are issued for home relaxation practice.

• In the sessions that follow, we explore further the themes that develop from the first session gradually narrowing the focus to particular topics with homework tasks where appropriate.

• Email support is a great way to fill the gaps between sessions and engender motivation. It also allows us to tailor a message and give helpful targeted help based on ongoing discussions.

If you're interested, please get in touch using the email address provided.

The charities focus is on introducing people to, and quickly building, self-management skills, thereby creating practical, positive change leading to an improved quality of life and well-being.