“In a Fankle”  was devised to help health care staff explore attitudes and work practices that affect older people.  As the name suggests,  the play is about the disconnections that happen between people and the impact these can have on the experience of caring and of being cared for.  It’s about the common experiences that we all have regardless of our role: e.g. being under stress, managing life transitions, dealing with other people’s attitudes towards us. 

The play was written by Esther Walker and Tess Allen to allow exploration of the key messages behind Connect in Care.  In its development we’ve drawn on published research as well as on our own experience of working with the NHS, Care Home and community sectors and conversations with staff and older people.   It’s designed to stimulate thoughts, feelings and discussion in relation to the experience and delivery of care.  It will soon be available in video format.

Here are some of the comments that staff (e.g. nurses, social care staff, social workers, student nurses)  have made in response to the play:

“That could be me!”

“It makes me think of how much attitudes and behaviours are shaped by an individual’s experience.”

“We’re often so busy with the person’s physical needs that we sometimes overlook the rest of their needs.”

“It makes me think of all the things people think/feel and don’t say.”

“I feel sad, touched, frightened, frustrated.”

“It reminds me how important physical appearance is to self-esteem and how others perceive you.”

“I like the smell of brasso too!”

Contact Esther for more information.