Page 31 - Unfair To Care 2024 - Who Cares Wins

SECTION 6: THE SEVEN DEADLY SINS
RELATIONSHIPS ARE KEY
GOOD CONTINUITY OF CARE IS CENTRAL TO DELIVERING HIGH-QUALITY SUPPORT.
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Victoria Martin, Senior Behavioural Support Strategy Manager at Community Integrated Care, emphasises that consistent, relationship-centred care is key to promoting independence and quality of life:
“The process of building a relationship with the people we support is not just a matter of courtesy and professionalism – it is a necessity which can transform and even save
lives. Understanding what brings joy, what is important
for self-fulfilment, and what makes someone feel secure is a fundamental part of high-quality support.
Reliable, consistent, and trusted social care is absolutely crucial for people who have learning disabilities. It isn’t enough to have somebody who is trained and available
– it must be somebody who is liked, trusted, and is
able to deeply relate and understand. I believe that the end of a strong supporting relationship can feel like a bereavement to many people who draw on social care.”
Disrupted care is a direct consequence of high staff shortages and staff turnover. The recruitment crisis in social care strikes at the very basic human rights of dignity, choice, and respect, which should be fundamental for every person. Rightly so, there is growing public acknowledgment and appreciation of these issues.