Press Releases
View All Press Releases| Dignity in Care | 11 Mar 2010 |
Dignity in Care - Everyones Business!
Age Concern Regional Support Services (South West) has joined forces with the Department of Health to lead on its Dignity in Care Campaign in the South West.
The Dignity in Care campaign aims to change the culture of health and social care services to place a greater emphasis on the quality of care. In particular it focuses on the aspects of care which give humanity to a service and ensure that users are treated with dignity and respect. These changes will only take place by the actions of individuals and we are encouraging anyone who cares about these issues to sign up as a Dignity Champion, if they have not already done so.
Dignity Champions include people who use care services, their relatives and carers, as well as members of local action groups, voluntary and advocacy organisations, and health and social care managers and frontline staff. They are committed to taking some action, however large or small, in order to promote a care system that emphasizes quality as well as efficiency and shows compassion and respect for those using its services.
Many carers may already be taking action which supports the aims of Dignity in Care, for example by giving feedback to health and social care staff about the service they provide. Becoming a Champion will further strengthen the campaign and give you support by recognising your efforts and giving access to resources and opportunities to share ideas, issues and best practice with others in your geographical area or area of interest. For example, there are Dignity Challenge cards which list ten aspects of high quality services which could be useful when talking to staff. The Dignity in Care campaign was launched in 2006 and there are over 15 000 Champions nationally. Many local organisations including the Council and NHS Trusts already participate.
Further information about Dignity in Care and Dignity Champions can be found on the website www.dignityincare.org.uk . The process of signing up as a Dignity Champion is quick and easy and can be done via the website, by calling 020 7972 4007 or visiting us on our stand at The Care Show Bournemouth (Windsor Hall W42. Remember that the Dignity Champion role is not intended to require lots of time, energy or experience; there are many small things that you can do which can have a big impact on people’s lives.
Come along and discuss the campaign further, share your experiences and best practices examples. We look forward to meeting you.
