Stand up for dignity - Legislation
Many of the principles now enshrined in law support dignity in care
Contents
- Introduction
- Sources of law
- Brief summary of key legislation
- Dignity in Care's relationship to human rights and equalities legislation
- Adhering to human rights law
- Relevant articles in the Convention of the Human Rights Act, with practice points and practice examples
- Summary of further legislation that supports Dignity in Care
- Glossary
Introduction
This is a brief introduction to the legislation which supports the rights of people, adults in the main, to dignity and respect when using health and social care services. It describes the workings of the Human Rights Act 1998 and some key legal provisions in the areas of discrimination, mental capacity, sexual offences, information legislation and health and safety. It also suggests ways in which apparent conflicts between the legal responsibilities placed upon practitioners and commissioners and the human rights of service users may be resolved. The requirements of the legislation promoting dignity in care may seem intimidating but it is important to recognise that many of the principles now enshrined in law embrace current best practice.
Who is it for?
It is aimed at practitioners and commissioners within health and social care in England and Wales, but will also be relevant to people using services and their carers. It should be helpful to anyone who wishes to understand the way legislation protects the rights of people who use services, in particular, their rights to be treated with dignity and their right to autonomy - that is, their right to have their wishes respected.
This guide is at an introductory level, but provides suggestions for further reading and websites for more specific information.
Note: As a result of devolution there is increasing divergence in the regulation of social care and therefore practitioners should consult local guidance for detailed information.
