In 2009 we began the process of enrolling all our staff as dignity in care champions, a champion must abide by 10 rules as set out by the department of health, these are:-

1. Have a zero tolerance on all forms of abuse

2. Support people with the same respect you would want for yourself or a member of your own 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 peoples rights 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

for more information visit www.dhcarenetworks.org.uk

We are now in the process of joining up with our local authorities dignity campaign called "Create a stir"