This guide will help you answer the Care Certificate standard 5.1b Describe why it is important to work in a way that promotes person centred values when providing support to individuals.
Person-centred values in health and social care are foundational to providing high-quality support that respects the individual’s uniqueness and dignity.
Adopting a person-centred approach means treating individuals as unique, recognising their personal preferences, history, current lifestyle, and desires for their future.
It is important to work in a way that promotes these values to ensure care and support are tailored to each person’s specific needs, facilitating better health and well-being outcomes.
Why is it important to work a way that promotes person centred values?
Respect for Individuality and Dignity
Promoting person-centred values helps to uphold the dignity of the individual. Each person has their own life story, preferences, and aspirations. By recognising and respecting these, care providers ensure that individuals do not feel dehumanised or overlooked. This respect fosters a sense of self-worth and belonging, which is fundamental to a person’s emotional and mental well-being.
Enhanced Quality of Care
When support is tailored to the individual’s specific needs and preferences, it is generally more effective. Person-centred care ensures that the services provided are appropriate and responsive to each individual, leading to higher satisfaction levels and better engagement in care plans. This personalised approach helps in achieving better health outcomes and enhances the overall quality of care.
Empowerment and Autonomy
Promoting person-centred values empowers individuals to take an active role in their care and support. It allows them to make choices and decisions about their lives, fostering independence and self-determination.
Feeling in control of one’s own care process can significantly increase motivation and cooperation in rehabilitation and ongoing health management.
Building Trust and Relationships
Working in a person-centred way helps build mutual trust and respect between care providers and those they support. It shows individuals that their carers are truly listening and valuing their input.
Strong, positive relationships are essential for effective communication and continuity of care, which can greatly reduce anxiety and enhance the overall care experience.
Cultural Competence and Inclusion
The UK is a diverse society with varied cultural, religious, and personal values. Person-centred care acknowledges and respects this diversity, ensuring inclusive practices that cater to everyone irrespective of their background.
This approach reduces the risk of cultural insensitivity and exclusion, promoting equal access to high-quality care.
Compliance with Legal Frameworks
The person-centred approach is enshrined in UK health and social care regulations and guidelines. For instance, principles from the Care Act 2014 and the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 emphasise the importance of treating individuals with respect and involving them in decisions about their care.
Adhering to person-centred values ensures compliance with these legal standards and contributes to overall best practices within the sector.
Ethical and Professional Standards
Ethically, promoting person-centred values aligns with the core principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, and justice in health and social care. It ensures that care is provided in the best interest of individuals, respects their choices, and treats them fairly.
Adhering to these ethical standards is a hallmark of professional excellence in health and social care.
Example Answers for the Care Certificate Standard Activity 5.1b
Here are some example responses that a care worker might provide to illustrate their commitment to promoting person-centred values while providing support to individuals:
Example 1: Respecting Individual Preferences
“I always ask Mrs Smith how she prefers her meals. For instance, I know she likes her tea with a splash of milk and no sugar. By doing this small thing, I demonstrate I respect her preferences and see her as an individual, not just another service user.”
Example 2: Ensuring Personal Involvement in Care Plans
“When we were creating a care plan for Mr Johnson, I invited him to take part in the discussions actively. He expressed a strong desire to continue gardening, which he loves. We incorporated time into his schedule for gardening, and this has had a positive impact on his mental health and overall well-being.”
Example 3: Empowering Through Choice and Control
“I always encourage Mrs Thomas to take part in decision-making about her daily activities. For example, each morning, I ask her what she would like to do—whether it’s going for a walk in the park, doing a puzzle, or simply reading a book. Giving her the choice helps to maintain her autonomy and makes her feel more in control of her life.”
Example 4: Culturally Sensitive Care
“Mr Ali observes certain religious practices that are important to him. I make it a point to understand these practices and incorporate them into his care routine. For example, he needs space and time for prayer several times a day. By respecting these needs, I ensure that his care is culturally sensitive and inclusive.”
Example 5: Building Positive Relationships Through Communication
“I make it a priority to spend a few extra minutes with residents during my rounds, simply chatting and getting to know them better. This has helped build trust and rapport. For instance, Mr Brown often shares stories from his past, and taking the time to listen makes him feel valued and understood.”
Example 6: Supporting Personal Goals and Aspirations
“Mrs. Green has always wanted to learn how to use a computer to stay in touch with her family abroad. I arranged for her to have basic computer lessons and showed her how to use email and video calls. This has improved her quality of life and keeps her connected to her loved ones, aligning with her personal goals.”
Example 7: Enhancing Participation and Engagement
“I noticed that Mrs Carter enjoys arts and crafts, so I organised a weekly arts and crafts session where she can express her creativity. This not only keeps her engaged but also boosts her emotional well-being, as she loves to display her creations around her living space.”
Example 8: Personalising Health & Hygiene Routines
“Mr Davies prefers to shave every morning as part of his routine. I respect this preference by assisting him with shaving every day. This not only maintains his appearance but also supports his sense of routine and normalcy, which is important for his mental well-being.”
Example 9: Complying with Legal and Ethical Standards
“I always follow the principles outlined in the Care Act 2014 by ensuring that individuals are at the heart of their care and support. For instance, during assessments and reviews, I make sure the person’s needs and wishes are fully considered and documented, ensuring our care plan aligns with legal and ethical standards.”
By incorporating these actions and attitudes into their daily work, care workers can effectively promote person-centred values, thereby improving the quality of care and the well-being of the individuals they support.
Summary
In summary, working in a manner that promotes person-centred values is essential for providing support that is respectful, effective, empowering, and inclusive. It fosters trust, complies with legal and ethical standards, and ultimately enhances the quality and experience of care for individuals within the UK health and social care system.
