Council support for Dignity in Care campaign

Launched in November 2006, the Dignity in Care campaign aims to stimulate a national debate around the issue and create a care system where there is zero tolerance of abuse and disrespect of adults.

The campaign is led by Government in partnership with many organisations, including Calderdale Council, that provide and commission care and protect the interests of those using care services and their carers.

To mark Dignity Action Day events are running at Ferney Lee care home at Todmorden and at Healthy House, Halifax.

Ferney Lee is holding a pampering day while Healthy House is holding an entertainments afternoon, including a guest entertainer and a special tea.

There will be displays at both venues to raise awareness of the Dignity in Care campaign.

The council has already signed up a number of Dignity Champions: homecare and care home staff who believe passionately that being treated with dignity is a basic human right, not an optional extra. They are willing to:

stand up and challenge disrespectful behaviour, rather than just tolerate it

act as good role models by treating other people with respect, particularly those 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.

The campaign is headed by National Dignity Ambassador, the broadcaster and journalist, Michael Parkinson, who said: "The aim is to ensure dignified care for all by getting staff and public alike talking about what dignity in care actually means, and inspiring everyone involved to take action."

Calderdale Council's director of health and social care, Jonathan Phillips, says that many Calderdale staff have already shown their commitment to the campaign. He said: "By signing up to this, they have demonstrated their strong belief that older people are entitled to dignity and respect, both in care settings and in their own homes.''