Welsh Labour Demands Dignity In Care

RESPECTING the dignity of older people must be part of local strategies for improving the health, social care and well-being of local people said Swansea West AM Andrew Davies today to mark the International Day of Older People (Monday, October 1st 2007).

The Labour led Assembly Government has launched a major new drive to ensure older people are given the respect they deserve and that their dignity is protected.

Wales's first Dignity in Care strategy will include:

• A Local Action plan to promote dignity and respect for older people in health and social care services
• Raising awareness of the need to respect older people's dignity and of existing standards already in place. A regional event will take place to highlight this within the local NHS and social services
• Ensuring all organisations with an interest in older people work together to improve care and support for older people
• A review of staff training to ensure it includes dignity issues explicitly
• Reporting on best practice across Wales and identifying areas that need further attention
  

Local Labour AM Andrew Davies said:
''Welsh Labour wants a health and care system where there is zero tolerance of abuse and disrespect of older people.
''Many staff in our care services take excellent care of our older people and give them the respect they deserve. Welsh Labour wants to see no exceptions.

''This new action plan will ensure that good practice is taken on board and that improved staff training take place in hospitals and care homes in Swansea West.

 Labour Deputy Minister for Social Services GWENDA THOMAS said:
  ''With the upcoming appointment of Wales's first ever Commissioner for Older People, Wales is recognised as a world leader on older people's issues but we must do more.

 ''Welsh Labour believes older people in Wales should never be subject to abuse and should be treated with respect. We want to create a situation where people in Wales are as outraged by disrespect for and abuse of older people as they are at the abuse of children.''

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