The Dignity in Care Campaign aims to stimulate a national debate around the need for people receiving care services to be treated with dignity. The aim is to create a care system where there is a zero-tolerance approach to the abuse of, and disrespect towards people who receive care, regardless of their age or needs.
The campaign is about winning hearts and minds, changing the culture of care services and placing a greater emphasis on the quality of care services in, for example, hospitals, care homes and home help services.
The campaign is being led by the Government in partnership with many organisations that provide care and protect the interests of those using care services.
It includes action to:
- raise awareness of dignity in care;
- inspire local people to take action in support of the campaign;
- share good practice and give impetus to positive innovation;
- transform services by supporting people and organisations in providing dignified services; and
- reward and recognise those staff and teams that make a difference and go the extra mile.
In support of this campaign, South Gloucestershire Council has launched its own Dignity in Care network. This growing group aims to share good practice and spread the message about the Dignity in Care Challenge. Network meetings will take place on a regular basis and will enable people working in the care sector to exchange ideas and learn from others.
For more information read the latest issue of the South Gloucestershire Dignity in Care Network Newsletter by clicking on the Read More section on the right hand side.
The Dignity in Care Challenge
High-quality services that respect people's dignity should
1. Have a zero tolerance of all forms of abuse
2. Support people with the same respect you would want for yourself or a member of your family
3. Treat each person as an individual by offering a personalised service
4. Enable people to maintain the maximum possible level of independence, choice and control.
5. Listen and support people to express their needs and wants
6. Respect people's rights to privacy
7. Ensure people feel able to complain without fear of retribution
8. Engage with family members and carers as care partners
9. Assist people to maintain confidence and a postive self-esteem.
10. Act to alleviate people's lonelieness and isolation