25/1/2012 - Give the gift of time this Dignity Action Day

People all over Cumbria are being urged to give the gift of time next week and do something extra special for someone they know who receives care as the county celebrates National Dignity Action Day. (Wednesday 1 February)

Dignity is based upon the principles of treating people as individuals, granting choice and control and nurturing a sense of purpose in daily life. The aim of the day is to raise awareness of dignity by encouraging people to give somebody an extra special day. It is also intended to remind us all that the dignity of those in our community is not the sole responsibility of health or social care staff – everybody has a role to play.

In Cumbria, dignity and respect is high on the agenda of all health and social care organisations and employers.  Cumbria County Council hosts a multi-agency Dignity Steering Group, comprising of representatives from adult social care, health and the third sector, committed to ensuring that dignity and respect remains at the very core of all service delivery. 

The Cumbria Dignity Steering Group and Care Sector Alliance Cumbria has had a key role in the production of a 6 minute animated dignity storyboard called ‘Dignity – little things make a big difference.‘ It has been financed by the North West Dignity Leads Network. This video is available to download and use at www.cumbria.gov.uk/adultsocialcare/dignity/

Sir Michael Parkinson, who is a dignity champion, said: "It might well be that the difference people make individually is a mere ripple on the surface of our care system, but each of those ripples added together create a wave, a social movement, and if this makes life better for some - then it has to be worthwhile."

Councillor James Airey, Cabinet member for Adult Social Care and chair of the multi-agency dignity group, said: “Many Cumbrian people need help and support in their daily lives. They may be older, have a disability, or some form of addiction. Whether this care is provided by family and friends or through a specific care service it is vital that they are treated with dignity and respect throughout. 

“Dignity Action Day serves as a useful reminder to everybody, not just those working in the health and social care, that we owe this duty to all of our Cumbrian residents. I would encourage us all to get behind this principle, think about how we can spend the day with a loved one, and give the gift of time this Dignity Action Day.“

For more information Dignity Action Day please www.dignityincare.org.uk

Media enquiries to communications adviser Nick Wright on 01228 226602