DIGNITY IN CARE NETWORK
The West Sussex LINk has launched a new Dignity in Care Network to support the excellent work already being carried out in West Sussex around dignity & respect. The new network will focus on the sharing of best practice, skills and ideas, recognise those staff and teams that make a difference and go the extra mile, and act as a conduit for training; both by mutual support and peer review and via health & social care statutory organisations.
The network will be there to support those who work in residential or home care organisations and who provide practical and personal care on a daily basis. It will be guided by the 10 dignity principles, known as the ‘Dignity Challenge’ developed by the Dignity in Care Campaign, when it was launched by the Dept of Health in 2006.
The network is still in its early stage of development and as such we would value ideas and comments from those who may wish to become members. If you work in the private, voluntary or independent sector, in a care home or for a domiciliary care organisation, whatever your role, we would like to hear from you.
You may also like to visit the ‘Dignity in Care Campaign’ (SCIE) webpage. From here you can see the West Sussex LINk Dignity network by clicking on Dignity Champion Networks, followed by regional networks – South East – West Sussex LINk Dignity Network.
BULLETINS - keep up with developements here
DIGNITY CHAMPIONS
We would like to increase the numbers of Dignity Champions in the West Sussex area. Dignity Champions are people who believe that ensuring dignity and respect for people using care services is a cause worth pursuing.
The role is not onerous, Dignity Champions can lead by example, support others to provide dignified services or simply commend other staff members for respecting dignity, in other words, Dignity Champions can do many small things that can have a big positive impact on people’s lives.
If you would like to find out more about becoming a Dignity Champion follow this link to the ‘Dignity in Care Campaign’ (SCIE) webpage and click on ‘becoming a Dignity Champion’ in the left hand panel.
THE DIGNITY CHALLENGE
1.
Have 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 & support people to express their needs and wants
6.
Respect people’s right 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 positive self esteem
10. Act to alleviate people’s loneliness and isolation.