Inclusiveness

The first Dignity in Care Event was held in June 2007 where representatives at all levels from the Council, partner agencies, independent sector and third sector colleagues were invited to hear about the Dignity in Care campaign and sign up to become Dignity in Care Champions. This has ensured dignity is not only a social care agenda in Lancashire. The Dignity Events now provide a format for the Champions to come together to hear of national developments, to exchange local ideas and to develop thinking in relation to the Dignity Campaign. This policy has led to the recruitment of over 95 Dignity Champions representing a wide range of partners at all levels.

The Dignity in Care Events continue to help energise the campaign attracting leading thinking into the locality. Presentations have been made by Mrs Pamela Smith Strategic Director, Warrington Borough Council, in respect of the authorities status as a "Beacon Council" for Dignity and more recently by Anna Gaughan, Regional Dignity Lead, on behalf of the North West Joint Improvement Partnership who gave a presentation on the "Aims of the Dignity Campaign" (8.10.2009). Issues, ranging from reducing depression in older people to highlighting poor standards of clothing for people in care homes have been covered.

An exercise measuring Lancashire's progress in relation to the "Aims of the Campaign" as set out by the regional dignity lead has been undertaken which includes a forward plan of action to discuss at the next Dignity in Care Event in April 2010.

The combination of an extensive and well connected group of Champions who meet regularly to review developments and progress provides a ready and continuing platform for the future development of the Dignity Campaign across Lancashire.