1.2 Identify guidance and standards that underpin the principles and values

This guide will help you answer the Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings Unit 1.2 Identify guidance and standards that underpin the principles and values.

In health, social care, and children and young people’s settings, understanding the principles and values that guide our work is really important. These principles are the foundation of best practice and quality care.

Key Principles and Values

Principles

Principles are the fundamental norms or rules that guide our actions and decisions. In health and social care, they include:

• Respect and Dignity: Treat everyone with respect and dignity.
• Compassion: Deliver care with empathy and kindness.
• Competence: Ensure your skills and knowledge are up-to-date.
• Communication: Communicate clearly and effectively.
• Courage: Stand up for what is right.
• Commitment: Show dedication to providing high-quality care.

Values

Values are the beliefs or standards of behaviour that guide the way we act. They inform our understanding of what is important and how we should conduct ourselves. Core values in this field include:

• Privacy: Respect the individual’s right to privacy.
• Confidentiality: Keep personal information private.
• Equality and Diversity: Treat everyone fairly and respect differences.
• Independence: Support individuals to be as independent as possible.
• Safety: Ensure the environment is safe for everyone.

Key Guidance and Standards

In the UK, several key documents and standards underpin these principles and values. Here’s a detailed examination:

The Care Act 2014

The Care Act 2014 is a significant piece of legislation in the UK. It provides a clear legal framework for how local authorities and other parts of the system should protect adults at risk of abuse or neglect. Key elements include:

• Person-Centred Care: Focus on the individual’s needs and preferences.
• Prevention: Act early to avoid harm and ensure well-being.
• Well-being: Support the individual’s happiness, security, and safety.
• Integration: Work collaboratively across sectors to provide seamless care.

Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations

These regulations detail the essential standards that health and social care providers must meet. The key regulations include:

• Dignity and Respect: Ensure service users are treated with respect and protected from abuse.
• Person-Centred Care: Tailor care and treatment to each individual.
• Needs Assessment: Carry out an assessment of needs and ensure appropriate care.
• Staff Competence: Staff must have the right qualifications, skills, and training.

Children Act 1989 and 2004

These Acts place a duty on local authorities to safeguard and promote the welfare of children. Key aspects include:

• Child-Centred Approach: Focus on the child’s needs.
• Parental Responsibility: Ensure parents play a significant role in decisions.
• Protection from Harm: Safeguard children from abuse and neglect.
• Supporting Families: Offer assistance to keep families together whenever possible.

Mental Capacity Act 2005

This Act protects and empowers individuals who may lack the mental capacity to make their own decisions about their care. Fundamental principles include:

• Assumption of Capacity: Presume a person has capacity unless proven otherwise.
• Support to Decide: Provide help to enable individuals to make decisions.
• Best Interests: Any decision made on behalf of someone should be in their best interests.
• Least Restrictive Option: Ensure the least restrictive option is chosen.

Equality Act 2010

This Act aims to protect individuals from discrimination in the workplace and in wider society. The key components include:

• Protected Characteristics: Age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.
• Equality of Opportunity: Ensure everyone has equal access to opportunities.
• Diversity: Promote and respect diversity in the workplace and society.

Professional Standards and Codes of Practice

The Code: Professional Standards of Practice and Behaviour for Nurses, Midwives, and Nursing Associates

This document outlines the standards that nurses, midwives, and nursing associates should uphold. Key areas include:

• Prioritising People: Put the needs of people receiving care first.
• Practising Effectively: Deliver care based on the best available evidence.
• Preserving Safety: Take action to mitigate risks.
• Promoting Professionalism and Trust: Uphold the reputation of the profession.

Social Care Wales Code of Professional Practice for Social Care

This code provides guidance for social care workers in Wales. Core principles include:

• Rights and Preferences: Respect the rights and preferences of individuals.
• Safety and Well-being: Promote health, safety, and well-being.
• Integrity: Uphold honesty and integrity.
• Accountability: Accept responsibility for your actions.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the guidance and standards that underpin the principles and values in health, social care, and children and young people’s settings is important. These frameworks ensure that care is delivered safely, respectfully, and effectively. By familiarising oneself with these regulations, acts, and codes, support workers can provide high-quality, person-centred care that meets established standards and promotes well-being for all individuals.

Example answers for unit 1.2 Identify guidance and standards that underpin the principles and values

Example Answer 1

As a care worker, I must uphold the principles of respect and dignity. The Care Act 2014 is important here because it prioritises person-centred care, ensuring that individuals receive the respect they deserve. For instance, when I assist an elderly client with bathing, I always make sure to communicate what I am doing to maintain their dignity. This act also emphasises wellbeing and integration, which means working closely with different health agencies to ensure holistic care. By following these guidelines, I help create an environment where the client feels valued and respected.

Example Answer 2

One of the core values in my role is confidentiality. The Health and Social Care Act 2008 Regulated Activities Regulations guides me to protect personal information. When updating records, I ensure details are stored securely and shared only with authorised personnel. This regulation also stresses staff competence. Hence, I regularly attend training sessions to stay informed and provide the best care possible. By adhering to these standards, I maintain the trust of those I care for and ensure legal compliance.

Example Answer 3

The Mental Capacity Act 2005 is essential in my daily practice, especially when working with clients who may lack the capacity to make their own decisions. A key principle is the assumption of capacity, which means I always presume that a client can make their own decisions unless proven otherwise. For example, before administering medication, I explain its purpose and ask for consent, supporting the client to decide for themselves. If a client cannot make a decision, I always consider their best interests and choose the least restrictive option. This approach ensures their rights are respected.

Example Answer 4

Working with children, I often refer to the Children Act 1989 and 2004. These acts emphasise a child-centred approach and parental responsibility. When devising care plans, I ensure that parents are involved in decision-making processes and that the child’s needs are essential. For example, if a child needs a new school placement due to special needs, I liaise with educational psychologists, social workers, and the family to find the best solution. This ensures the child’s welfare is prioritised and the family is supported.

Example Answer 5

Equality and diversity are fundamental in my role. The Equality Act 2010 provides guidance by protecting people from discrimination. I always ensure that the services I provide are accessible to everyone, regardless of their background. For instance, when planning activities, I consider the cultural and religious needs of clients. This might involve arranging a celebration for different cultural festivals. By doing so, I promote an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and valued, adhering to the standards set by the Equality Act.

Example Answer 6

The Code: Professional Standards of Practice and Behaviour for Nurses, Midwives and Nursing Associates is a key document I follow. It prioritises putting people first, practising effectively, preserving safety, and promoting professionalism. During my shifts, when a complication arises, I focus on providing immediate and competent care, ensuring safety. Whether it’s a medication error or an unexpected health issue, I communicate clearly with my team and the patient. By practising these standards, I uphold the integrity and trust in my profession, ensuring high-quality care is consistently provided.