HOW A TSX GROUP IS RUN
An introduction to the running of a TSX group
TSX sets up an art/drop in group in a locality by advertising the existence of a new group and attracting people who live in that area. We aim to build a community spirit among those who had previously not belonged by making friends and neighbours of isolated people using art as a medium.
The group is provided with all necessary art equipment and a place at a (usually) central table so all members work alongside one another providing an opportunity to chat and begin to make friends. It is important that each member feels able to take part in all decisions regarding the group and that they be encouraged to be actively involved. This increases self-worth and begins the process of re-integration. Initially, a member or TSX would start the group running but it is expected that members of the group will offer to become leaders, key-holders, etc.
Every group will have its own distinctive „feel‟ and Leaders must be able to adapt the TSX ethos and practice to accommodate the needs within their area.
As stated, it is important that the ethos of the TSX groups be maintained at all times. This ethos allows each group to adapt at ground level to the requirements or requests of members providing it is viable, safe and to the benefit of the group at large. It allows for individual needs and interests with a humanistic and holistic approach at all times. It would not be in the interest of TSX to become the same as other organisations where they provide a rigid service of activity.
This empowerment to the members helps the TSX groups make a leap forward in overcoming some of the social and emotional needs of the community and the individuals within it.
Dependant on the group and members, we would recommend that at least a period of 8 to 12 months should be spent with the TSX lead which would give them time to find suitable volunteers to help with the day to day running of the group and be suitable trained by the lead to stand in when the lead cannot be there. This approach is based on a TSX lead member wishing to move on to set up any further group and repeating the process.
For this to happen, the volunteers should already have their CRB certificate from TSX and that they have had been given the opportunity to run the group as lead with the existing lead assessing their competence to do so. There are no formal qualifications needed as we believe people with life experience have the qualities we are looking for. These people from hear on are "experts by experience" EbE.
Those who wish only to set up one group and run this would just follow the TSX ethos of the groups.
The TSX lead would also keep in touch with TSX central office, who will provide whatever support is needed to make a successful group, as well as providing members the opportunity to contribute to the TSX monthly newsletters. We also encourage each group to produce their own newsletter which will encourage and support other groups.
It is important to TSX that they are not at any time seen as similar or the same as existing organisations and end up with a label that carries stigma which people are so desperately trying to overcome.
