Dignity Action Day
The 1st of February is Dignity Action Day. Dignity Action Day is an annual opportunity for health and social care workers, and members of the public to uphold people's rights to dignity and provide a memorable day for people who use care services.
It is part of the Dignity in Care Campaign which is organised by the National Dignity Council.
What is Dignity in Care Campaign?
The Dignity in Care Campaign is about ‘changing the culture of care services and placing a greater emphasis improving the quality of care and the experience of citizens using services including HNS hospitals, community services, care homes and home support services.’ The campaigns core values are about having dignity in our hearts, minds and actions.
The National Dignity Council
The National Dignity Council (formerly The Dignity Partnership Board), the charity behind this campaign, exist to shape and influence the work of the Dignity in Care network, and also supports and campaigns for Dignity Champions. They meet every two months and are made up of representatives from various bodies including health and social care organisations.
More about Dignity Action Day and how to get involved
The main aim of Dignity Action Day is ‘to ensure people who use care services are treated as individuals and are given choice, control and a sense of purpose in their daily lives.’
This year’s Dignity in Action Day theme is Put undignified care to bed.
There are a number of ways that you can get involved in Dignity Action Day. If you are a health or social care worker then you can promote dignity in your workplace. If you are a member of the public then you can promote dignity in your community. You can also put on a fundraiser or wear red on the day and donate to their Just Giving page. For more ideas about how you can get involved, visit the Dignity in Care website Click here .
Dignity Champions
If you would like to do more throughout the year to promote dignity in care, you could also become a Dignity Champion. Dignity Champions pledge to challenge poor care, act as role models and to educate and inform those around them about dignity in care. For more information visit:
The 10 Dignity Do’s
The Dignity Council promotes the following set of dignity standards within the care industry.
- Have a zero tolerance of all forms of abuse
- Support people with the same respect you would want for yourself or a member of your family
- Treat each person as an individual by offering a personalised service
- Enable people to maintain the maximum possible level of independence, choice and control
- Listen and support people to express their needs and wants
- Respect people's right to privacy
- Ensure people feel able to complain without fear of retribution
- Engage with family members and carers as care partners
- Assist people to maintain confidence and positive self-esteem
- Act to alleviate people's loneliness and isolation
We think this is a fabulous summary of dignity at work.
Dignity at New Age Care
At New Age Care we treat all of our clients and staff with respect and dignity at all times. If you would like to know more about how we do this, check out our Ethos on our website. You can also contact us on 0808 808 5000.
