The Power of Pausing (and a Bit of Magic)

This week, our team stepped away from screens, inboxes and everyday tasks for our annual away day.

There were no strategy decks or formal sessions. Just time together. Time to connect, reflect and remind ourselves why our work matters.

We don’t fit stairlifts or complete DFG applications. We don’t visit homes or sign off works. But we support the people who do. The caseworkers, occupational therapists and technical officers who help disabled people live more safely and independently at home.

They are the ones making the difference on the ground. Our job is to help them do that well, with clear guidance, good tools and honest advice when things get tricky.

So we took a step back to think about how we’ve done that over the past year. What’s gone well. What we’re proud of. What’s made a difference.

It wasn’t about numbers or performance targets. It was about moments. Like a call where we helped someone work through a difficult case. Or a new guide that gave people confidence to try a different approach. Or an event where people left feeling inspired rather than overwhelmed.

We also had a bit of fun. A real magician came in to entertain us, and reminded us how rare it is to feel genuinely surprised at work. There was laughter, disbelief, and a few people checking their sleeves for hidden cards.

Then we unveiled something new. The very first play of the DFG Champions Board Game.

It’s a practical way to explore the real challenges of delivering adaptations. Realistic scenarios, tricky decisions, and all the messy stuff that doesn’t fit neatly into flowcharts. It sparked debate, ideas, and more than a little competitive spirit. We’ll be sharing more about it soon.

What stood out most for me was how much value there is in stepping away from the day-to-day. When you give people space to talk and think, they open up. They reconnect. And you start to see the impact of your work more clearly.

Connection isn’t a nice-to-have. It’s how we stay grounded, motivated and human in a job that can sometimes feel like it never stops.

So if your team hasn’t paused in a while, maybe now’s the time. Not to plan or fix, just to notice what’s been achieved and who helped make it happen.

You might be surprised by how much there is to celebrate.