1. Dignity In Care
“Compassion, kindness and respect are the very essence of dignified care. We must make sure that these principles are at the heart of everything we do.”
Paul Burstow MP
Minister of State for Care Services

2. National Dignity Council
The dignity in care campaign forms part of a National Campaign which seeks to raise awareness of the need for people receiving care services to be treated with dignity
The dignity in care campaign is about winning hearts & minds, changing the culture of care services and placing a greater emphasis on quality
The following ten values form the framework for high quality services:

3. 1: Zero Tolerance of All Forms of Abuse
Physical abuse
Domestic violence
Sexual abuse
Psychological abuse
Financial or material abuse
Discriminatory abuse
Organisational abuse
Neglect

4. 2: Support people with the same respect you would want for yourself or a member of your family
Remember…….if its not good enough for you or a loved one, why should it be good enough for someone else.

5. 3: Treat each person as an individual by offering a personalised service
Ask how they would like things done
Listen to what they have to say
Respond with respect and courtesy
Respect peoples diversity and cultural needs

6. 4: Enable people to maintain the maximum possible level of independence , choice and control
Individuals must be given as much control of their life as possible – it will build their identity and self-esteem
Individuals have a right to participate in day to day activities
Individuals have a right to relationships
Individual’s are given equal opportunity of achieving their goals, and their own cultural needs

7. 5: Listen and support people to express their needs and wants
Communicate appropriately
Involve the individual
Ask permission to speak with carers, family or friends
Get to know who the person really is
Offer people choices
Involve an advocate if necessary

8. 6: Respect peoples right to privacy
Give people time to decide decisions asked of them
Use a quiet area to discuss sensitive issues
When assisting with personal care, think how you may feel in a similar situation (Ask individuals before touching them in any way)
Knocking or speaking before entering a particular space or room
Give people space where and when necessary
Treat personal information confidentially
Making sure curtains, screens or doors are properly closed before supporting a person to wash or dress

9. 7: Ensure people feel able to complain without fear of retribution
Encourage feedback and ensure people know how to express their views
Develop a culture where complaints are used as a tool to help improve quality
Respect peoples opinions and support them to challenge poor services or practice
Remember that individuals have the right to receive care with compassion and dignity

10. 8: Engage with family members and Carers
Make time to communicate
Plan & maintain regular contact
Listen to what they have to say
Value their contribution
Recognise when they need support & offer information or advice

11. 9: Assist people to maintain confidence and a positive self esteem
Offer choices in as many things as possible
Find out what's available in your area
Ask people about their hobbies and interests
Support people to pursue their interests in their own local community

12. 10: Act to alleviate people’s loneliness and isolation
Group activities, such as reading, art, writing and exercise sessions
Memory Book activities
Photographs of loved ones on display
Telephone conversations
Television & Radio
Talking Books
Support groups
Drop in sessions

13. Barriers to providing dignified care
Environment
Staff attitudes and behaviour
Culture of care
Specific care activities

14. “Our Challenge is to put Dignity at the heart of care services”
D Do the right thing I Individuals matter G Good practice N New approach to basic values I Improve care services T Take time to know the person Y You can make a difference

15. Becoming a Dignity Champion
A Dignity Champion is someone who believes passionately that being treated with dignity is a basic human right
Stand up and challenge disrespectful behaviour
Act as good role models by treating other people with respect, particularly those who are less able to stand up for themselves
Speak up about dignity to improve the way that services are organised and delivered
Influence and inform colleagues
Listen to and understand the views and experiences of citizens.

16. What Can I Do?
Become a dignity champion today – just ring or sign up online at
Give every member of staff a dignity Card
Display posters and leaflets
Visit the dignity in care website to see national examples of good practice.
Sought Older Peoples views on how important Dignity and Respect is to them.
Consider enrolment of the Daisy Mark Accreditation
For more info or