Parky: Care services must be improved
Sir Michael Parkinson calls for nation to respect elderly people
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Tuesday, 12, Jan 2010 12:08
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Television legend Sir Michael Parkinson has called on the government to improve the services for people in care after a year as the country's dignity ambassador.
Sir Michael has spoken about his experiences of his own mother, who suffered from dementia, saying "much more needs to be done" for those in care.
In a personal account of the last 12 months, published today, Sir Michael said: "I gained first-hand experience of the NHS and care services during my mother's illness with dementia. It struck me that whilst there are some excellent examples of care, where people are given the dignity and respect they need and deserve, much more needs to be done."
A new dignity action day and a £50,000 bright ideas grant (BIG) for innovative projects that encourage dignity in care, were announced alongside the report by health secretary Andy Burnham today. The dignity day of action will take place on February 25th.
Sir Michael continued: "Dignity doesn't need to cost anything - small considerations like taking time to have a chat when you take people to the loo, or using their name rather than a generic term of endearment, can help people retain independence and self respect. We need to banish outdated attitudes and assumptions that can be a barrier to good quality care.
"Becoming national dignity ambassador has strengthened my belief that dignity in care needs to be everybody's business. It's not just about the government, or nurses or carers. We can all make a difference and I hope that my work will highlight this and inspire many more people to get involved and make this a reality."
The Alzheimer's Society, which is supporting the Dignity in Care campaign, said it could greatly improve the quality of life of people with dementia in care if caregivers "take this to heart".
Mr Burnham said: "Dignity must be at the heart of care. To achieve this we are transforming the care and support system to make it fairer, simpler and more affordable for everyone. We will soon be setting out our plans for a new National Care Service and are introducing free personal care for those living at home with the highest needs."