Stand up for Dignity in Care Awards 2013

If staff do not recognise dignity, if they feel taken for granted, if their self-esteem is dented, then it becomes more difficult for them to deliver dignified care.

In order to recognise, inspire and celebrate Dignity in Care locally, last year Richmond Council launched a local Stand up for Dignity in Care Award.

The Dignity in Care Awards nomination period for 2013 will open on Action Against Elder Abuse Day, 14 June 2013.

The Council remains strongly committed to celebrating Dignity in Care and championing care workers in Richmond upon Thames. As a Council we strive to highlight and recognise good practice and those who deliver dignified care locally.

This award aims to promote the recognition of good care, highlight the value of care workers and promote dignity in care whatever the service provided. The Council recognises the need to support and encourage mutual respect between people who provide care, and those who receive care.

Cllr Nicola Urquhart, Cabinet Member for Adults Services, Health & Housing said:

“Last year’s Dignity in Care Awards highlighted the hard work and dedication put in by care workers providing support in the borough. Being a care worker is not always easy and we should celebrate their diligence to promote Dignity in Care on a daily basis.

“At some point in our lives most of us will be in contact with a care worker, whether in our work, as a resident who needs care, or a relative or friend. Care work can be difficult, requiring patience and compassion; it can be hard, however it can also be very fulfilling.

“This is the second year we are running the Stand up for Dignity in Care Awards as they provide a platform for us as a borough to recognise the dedication and professionalism of care workers who are champions in providing care with compassion and pride.

“Dignity and respect is a two way thing, but in many cases care workers feel undervalued and this is something that needs to change. Becoming a care worker requires a certain type of person - one that is dedicated to improving the life of another person in some cases with very little reciprocation.

“I urge local residents who work in or use care services, health and social care professionals, voluntary organisations and others to help us to Stand up for Dignity in Care by nominating a care worker you feel shows an excellent level of respect and dignity to the people they support."

Who can I nominate?

Individual care workers working in Richmond upon Thames who are delivering social care services and support to adults who are residents of the borough.

How to nominate

Nominations open from 15 June 2013 and the deadline for nominations is Monday, 15 July 2013

More information

For more information about the Dignity in Care Awards please email press-pr@richmond.gov.uk or phone 020 8487 5162.

Nominees and winner 2012

Find out the winner and nominees for the 2012 Dignity in Care Award.

Background

The original Dignity in Care campaign was launched nationally five years ago, using 10 standards to indicate how care could be provided in a dignified way. These included:

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 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 a positive self-esteem.
10. Act to alleviate people's loneliness and isolation.

To find out more about the campaign, visit www.scie.org.uk