1.1 Explain what it means to have a duty of care in own work role
There is an ethical and legal obligation to ensure that those who rely on us as a care professional are safeguarded and adequately cared for. This duty, widely known as the “duty of care,” forms the foundation of my actions and decisions. It involves creating an environment where vulnerable individuals feel valued, protected, and treated with compassion, making sure they remain free from harm or mistreatment.
To uphold this duty effectively, I adopt several key practices in my daily work:
- Keeping Detailed Records. Every detail matters when it comes to someone’s well-being. From tracking changes in their health to documenting any incidents or specific needs, these records help provide consistent and tailored care over time.
- Raising Concerns Promptly. If I ever notice something that could endanger someone’s safety—whether it’s a hazard or potential warning signs—I make sure to inform a senior colleague immediately so proper action can be taken without delay.
- Honouring Their Autonomy. People deserve respect for their personal choices, privacy, and dignity. Even as I offer support, my goal is always to empower individuals by respecting their preferences and treating them as equals.
- Handling Medications Responsibly. When administering medications becomes part of my role, I follow guidelines strictly—right dosage at the right time—and ensure everything aligns with their needs and plan of care.
- Using Tools Safely. Whether it’s assisting someone with mobility equipment or using other devices during care routines, I take extra care to handle such tools properly to prevent accidents or unnecessary discomfort.
- Staying Well-Trained. The best way to deliver excellent support is by staying informed. That’s why I continually update my knowledge on safeguarding procedures, health regulations, and strategies for supporting vulnerable people compassionately
Upholding this responsibility isn’t just about ticking boxes; failing in this duty can have catastrophic consequences for those who depend on me—from unnecessary distress to critical emergencies. Lack of proper attention or standards could leave people vulnerable not only to neglect but also potentially life-altering harm due to thoughtlessness or abuse.
Moreover, shirking these responsibilities has serious repercussions—not just morally but legally too—including disciplinary measures or even criminal charges if negligence crosses certain boundaries. My commitment involves more than abiding by rules; it’s about practising these principles every day because society’s most fragile members deserve nothing less than ethical and effective care.
Adhering rigorously to these standards in both professional practice and personal accountability allows me to contribute towards building trust while protecting the dignity and well-being of those in need—a mission that defines everything I do day after day.
Other answers in the full document:
- 1.2 Explain how duty of care relates to duty of candour.
- 1.3 Explain how duty of care contributes to safeguarding and protecting individuals’ right to live in safety and free from abuse and neglect.
- 2.1 Describe potential conflicts or dilemmas that may arise between the duty of care and an individual’s rights.
- 2.2 Describe how to work with individuals and others to manage conflicts and dilemmas related to duty of care effectively and achieve positive outcomes for individuals.
- 2.3 Explain where to get additional support and advice about conflicts and dilemmas.
- 3.1 Describe own role in listening and responding to comments and complaints.
- 3.2 Summarise the main points of agreed procedures for handling comments and complaints.
- 3.3 Explain the importance of empowering individuals and others to express their comments and complaints.
- 4.1 Give an example of what is meant by each of the following:adverse events
incidents
errors
near misses - 4.2 Describe how to recognise, report and respond to adverse events, incidents, errors and near misses.
- 4.3 Explain how own role in recognising and responding to adverse events, incidents, errors and near misses can prevent further occurrences and improve quality of care.