The senses framework

Part of the ESME : Resources for Sense-able Conversations Pack.

Introduction

​The senses framework overleaf is the Senses Framework developed by Nolan et. al (2006) applied to the context of developing enriched learning experiences among midwifery students and midwives. The original work by Nolan et. al (2006) proposed that an enriched care environment is achieved through all involved in the care experience (patients, staff, relatives) having a sense of: Security, Belonging, Purpose, Continuity, Achievement and Significance. Through research carried out with midwifery student and midwives new understanding was generated as to how it looks and feels when each of the Senses are being achieved for individuals and within teams.

The PDF version has a poster which could be used to stimulate conversation around a number of questions:

• What stood out for you in what you read?
• Were there any surprises in what you read?
• What do you know about what you value in relation to the Senses?
• Is there anything you would like to add to the points below any of the Senses?

The poster could also be used to encourage people to share their own everyday examples of when they experienced the Senses by asking:

• Can you think of examples, short stories, of when you experienced these Senses?

Resources for sense-able conversations

Accompanying this poster are a range of further resources, collectively known as the ESME: Resources for Sense-able Conversations Pack which can be used to further delve into what helps the Senses be achieved for midwifery students, midwives and those they work with, care for and support. The term, Resources for Sense-Able Conversations, is a wordplay on the idea that these resources are a root in to conversations which enable the Senses to be realised.

It is hoped that these resources will be a catalyst for Sense-Able conversations, whereby those using them continue to develop further ideas for how they can be of use in practice.

Sense of security

1. To feel safe to raise difficulties and sensitive issues in an environment that supports and values these open conversations
2. To be able to say what you know and what you don't know, knowing that there are people around you to help you develop your knowledge and skills

Sense of belonging

1. To have opportunities to develop/ sustain/ enhance your relationships in the team through you & people in the team valuing and showing an interest in one another
2. To feel you are not alone through being able to confide in people you trust
3. To feel part of a valued group who share similar values and beliefs which connect you
4. To feel part of a team where your contribution is recognised and celebrated

Sense of purpose

1.To genuinely understand what you care about, and what matters to you and motivates you in your work
2.To feel others are actively invested in supporting you in your role now and in your continued development in the future.
3.To work with others in developing a shared understanding of your purpose, aspirations and a clear sense of what is valued.

Sense of continuity

1. To experience people being interested in making connections and links to your previous experiences that you can draw on to enhance your skills and strengths
2. To be part of a team where there is eagerness to build on and further develop existing knowledge and practice
3. To be supported to hone in on specific skills that you would like to continue to refine and develop

Sense of achievement

1. To feel positive about your contribution your ability to make the best use of your skills and experience
2. To hear feedback from others in real-time that is meaningful to you and that helps you to grow and develop in line with your personal goals
3. To feel safe and engaged to give feedback to others about what you have noticed and what you value
4. To be in tune with what is practical and possible for you and others to achieve in any given situation

Sense of significance

1. To experience your everyday efforts being noticed and appreciated, knowing that what you do matters
2. To feel a consistent value being placed on learning and development; everyone being able to share their learning and having opportunities to access new learning
3. To feel heard by others and to hear others use language that helps you to feel valued and respected
4. To feel that you have a voice, and that your questions, thoughts and feelings are welcomed

Using the resources

All the resources in the ESME: Resources for Sense-Able Conversations are licensed under Creative Commons BY 4.0. This means that those using the resource can copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format and adapt, transform, and build upon the material. Further details about the licence can be found on the Creative Commons website.

We would like to encourage you to have a look, take a light-hearted approach to giving them a go and notice what happens in the conversations when you try them out.