The model has been piloted, tested and rolled out with a wide range of professionals working clinically and we know that those professionals who are exposed to supervision within the model are more clinically effective, less likely to be off sick and develop better workplace relationships (Wallbank, 2012). It is known that when professionals undertake complex clinical work they move between anxiety, fear or stress about their work. If they can process these natural feelings about the work they are able to focus on their own learning needs and development and then they enter a creative, energetic and solution focused zone.
The model of Restorative Supervision allows staff to spend more time in a creative energetic and solution focused zone. The model has been delivered and evaluated with over 3600 professionals since 2007. The model has shown to be effective in reducing stress, burnout and increasing compassion satisfaction (the pleasure that one derives from doing their job) (Wallbank & Hatton , 2011), this is measured by using the Professional Quality of Life Questionnaire (PROQOL) at points during the supervision programme.
Professionals undertaking supervision report that they are enabled by the model to increase their autonomy, build stronger relationships with their colleagues and employers and undertake their clinical or managerial caseload more effectively (Wallbank, 2012).
Quotes from those receiving supervision:
‘Restorative supervision for me has meant so much. It has given me the strength to manage my own resilience, currently my work is at times extremely stressful and I have found it easy to forget what is important. Restorative supervision has made me look at myself more in terms of how I manage myself, as well as how I manage my team and behaviours. I have also learnt to adapt my management style according to situations. I have also found various resources to provide myself with ways of managing my own stress levels.’
‘Following the sessions I learnt that it was okay to ask for help. That being a manager is a difficult job, and site pressures only make it more difficult, but I was not alone in feeling this way. By asking for help and guidance I found pleasure in my job once again. I realised that I can get through tough situations and actually the sense of achievement afterwards has its own benefits.’
‘Restorative supervision greatly helped my stress levels during a particularly difficult time in my career. By attending these sessions, I was able to put things into perspective and gain a control of the situation. This led to really positive outcomes for me and my team. I now see this stressful time, as something I have overcome- an achievement.’
‘Following these sessions I found a way to get back in control. Prior to this I felt like I couldn’t cope, overwhelmed and like every little issue was a huge one to deal with. This impacted on my leadership style. Once I had control back, I felt like I could confidently get the team through a stressful time by us working together. I no longer felt alone as I had gained back the trust and respect of my team.’
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