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 2.4 Outline what is meant by person-centred practice or child-centred practice.
In health, social care, and settings involving children and young people, the principles of person-centred and child-centred practices are key. These approaches ensure that the needs, preferences, and rights of individuals are at the forefront of care and support services. As a support worker, understanding and implementing these practices is importantto providing high-quality and respectful care.
What is Person-Centred Practice?
Person-centred practice places the individual at the heart of all decisions concerning their care and support. This approach respects the individual’s preferences, values, and needs.
Core Principles
- Individuality: Recognising and respecting each person’s unique characteristics and life experiences.
- Rights: Ensuring that the individual’s rights are upheld and respected.
- Choice: Providing opportunities for the individual to make informed choices about their care and support.
- Dignity and Respect: Treating the person with dignity and respect at all times.
- Communication: Encouraging open, honest, and effective communication.
Example
Consider an elderly individual in a care home who prefers rising early and having their breakfast at their own pace. A person-centred approach would involve tailoring the care routine to accommodate this preference.
What is Child-Centred Practice?
Child-centred practice is an approach that places children’s needs and interests at the core of their care and support. This method acknowledges the rights, views and interests of the child.
Core Principles
- Best Interests: Always prioritising the child’s best interests.
- Participation: Involving children in decisions about their care in an age-appropriate manner.
- Protection: Ensuring the child’s safety and well-being.
- Developing Potential: Encouraging the child’s development to their fullest potential.
- Tailored Support: Adjusting support and activities to suit the child’s individual needs and preferences.
Example
Think of a child in a nursery who loves engaging in arts and crafts. A child-centred approach would ensure that the child has regular access to art materials and activities, alongside other developmental opportunities.
Benefits of Person-Centred and Child-Centred Practices
Improved Well-being
- Enhances the individual’s emotional and psychological well-being.
- Promotes autonomy and independence.
- Reduces feelings of helplessness and increases life satisfaction.
Better Outcomes
- Leads to better health and developmental outcomes.
- Promotes positive behaviour and engagement.
- Provides personalised care plans that are more effective.
Enhanced Relationships
- Builds trust and rapport between support workers and individuals.
- Encourages a sense of belonging and community.
- Involves families and carers in the care process.
Implementing Person-Centred and Child-Centred Practices
Listening and Observing
Pay attention to verbal and non-verbal cues. Show empathy and understanding. This helps in understanding preferences and concerns better.
Involving the Individual
Encourage active participation in planning and decision-making. This involves explaining options and respecting their choices.
Providing Tailored Support
Adjust the care plan according to the unique needs and preferences of the individual. Be flexible and adaptable.
Challenges and Solutions
Limited Resources
Resource limitations can hinder the effective implementation of person-centred and child-centred practices. To address this, prioritise critical needs and seek creative solutions.
Resistance to Change
Some staff may resist changing long-standing practices. Provide training and support to understand the benefits of these approaches.
Conclusion
Person-centred and child-centred practices are essential in providing effective and respectful care. By focusing on individual needs and preferences and involving people in decisions about their care, you can significantly improve their quality of life. Implementing these approaches may involve overcoming challenges, but the benefits far outweigh the difficulties. As a support worker, your role is really important in ensuring these practices are upheld and that every individual receives the care and support they deserve.
By understanding and implementing person-centred and child-centred practices, you contribute to a more compassionate and effective care environment. Keep the principles of individuality, respect, and participation at the forefront of your work, and you will significantly enhance the well-being and outcomes for those you support.
Example answers for unit 2.4 Outline what is meant by person-centred practice or child-centred practice
Example Answer 1
As a care worker, I often work with residents in a nursing home setting. A great example of person-centred practice is when I take the time to understand each resident’s personal history and preferences. For instance, Mrs. Brown enjoys reading mystery novels in the morning. By ensuring she has her favourite books and a quiet space to read each day, I respect her individual preferences and improve her quality of life. This allows her to engage in activities she enjoys, maintaining her dignity and promoting her mental wellbeing.
Example Answer 2
Working in a children’s nursery, I use child-centred practices daily. For example, I noticed that one child, Tommy, has a particular interest in dinosaurs. By incorporating dinosaur-themed activities and resources into his playtime, I am supporting his interests and developmental needs. This approach not only makes learning more enjoyable for Tommy but also encourages him to be more engaged and enthusiastic about exploring other areas of play and learning.
Example Answer 3
In my role, I support adults with learning disabilities. One of the individuals, John, prefers to have his meals in a particular order and at certain times. By accommodating his meal preferences and ensuring that he eats in an environment where he feels comfortable, I am practising person-centred care. This approach helps John feel respected and maintains a sense of normalcy and control over his daily routine, thereby improving his emotional wellbeing.
Example Answer 4
As a care worker in a residential facility for children, I frequently use child-centred practices. For instance, I noticed that Sarah, a young girl in the facility, is very shy and finds it difficult to participate in group activities. To adhere to child-centred practice, I offer Sarah the option to engage in one-on-one activities that she is more comfortable with, such as drawing or reading. This not only respects her individual needs but also helps build her confidence gradually, encouraging her participation without feeling overwhelmed.
Example Answer 5
In my job supporting elderly clients living independently, I often use person-centred practices. For example, Mr. Green prefers to walk in the park every afternoon. By helping him maintain this routine, I show respect for his independence and support his physical health. This routine not only enhances his physical wellbeing but also his mental health, as he finds walking in nature calming and enjoyable. Thus, incorporating his preferences into his care plan improves his overall quality of life.
Example Answer 6
In my experience working as a support worker for adults with physical disabilities, I often practice person-centred care. One individual, Lucy, prefers to be involved in her own care planning. By regularly consulting with her about her preferences and any changes she wants, I ensure that her voice is heard and respected. This approach empowers Lucy to make informed choices about her care, fostering a sense of autonomy and responsibility, which positively impacts her overall wellbeing.
