Dignity in Care

Dignity is one of the most important factors in later-life care, and something we embrace at the heart of our person-centred approach to care. Dignity in care means ensuring every individual in our care experiences respect, compassion, and support, while knowing they have choice, control, and a sense of purpose in their lives.
 
Dignity should not be compromised for anyone, at any phase of life. At Beritaz Care, our care services extend beyond the physical health of residents; we also understand the importance of supporting residents’ mental and emotional needs. Making sure they feel safe, comfortable, and valued as individuals is how we show respect for every resident.

At Beritaz Care, we understand the huge impact dignity has on wellbeing, and we want to ensure our residents always feel fulfilled and have a sense of independence living in our homes. We encourage residents to continue with their favourite hobbies and support them in any way we can. From talented artists to bakers, novel writers, gardeners, poets, musicians, and more, we are always astounded by the amazing skills our residents have perfected throughout their lives, and we love to see them enjoy their passions. 

Who better to share their thoughts on dignity and respect within care than our residents? This month, several of our homes have been holding Dignity Action Month-themed activities, encouraging residents to consider the question ‘What does dignity mean to me?’ At Springkell House, residents enjoyed an afternoon tea with delicious refreshments prepared by the home’s chefs, while they considered ‘what is dignity’ and how they felt their dignity should be respected; they also took part in a dignity-themed craft activity.
 
Residents of Ashton Manor came together to create their ‘dignity do’s’ board. The residents shared their thoughts on what their biggest ‘dignity do’s’ are, ways in which everyone can show respect and care to each other. They decorated the board with their favourite ways to uphold dignity, to create an inspiring collage for everyone in the home to see. It was wonderful to hear our residents’ ideas on how we can all respect each other’s dignity and how we should treat one another. These activities inspired some great conversations and were thought-provoking for all involved. 

Within our homes, all residents have the opportunity to play an active part in the home community. We hold regular meetings where residents get to have their say on everything from the food being served at meals to the décor around the home, as well as the chance to share their thoughts on activities and events being planned. Some of our homes have introduced resident councils, where resident representatives come together to discuss issues important to everyone in the home and raise these points with home management.

One of the first things our staff are taught when they join our homes is the importance of respecting the dignity of every individual in our care. Our staff get to know each resident, remembering small details about their lives, their interests and preferences, and this knowledge helps to shape their personalised care plans. Staff take part in regular training to ensure they are confident with care practices and the best way to support the various needs of residents, including topics such as moving & handling, dementia care, and safeguarding.
 
Upholding dignity is such an important topic, particularly within the care industry. We are always doing our utmost to uphold the principles of dignity, respect, and compassion through our person-centred approach to care. During Dignity Action Month, we are exploring how we can further protect the dignity of our residents and make sure we all understand the importance of dignity within care.