1.1 Explain what it means to have a duty of care in own work role
The duty of care is the legal obligation to exercise a reasonable degree of attention and caution in order to avoid foreseeable harm or injury. It applies both between people in relationships such as care provider-service user, employer-employee, teacher-student etc., and also extends beyond this into broader concepts such as one’s actions impacting on the environment or general public welfare.
I have a duty of care to ensure that the people I look after receive the best possible service. This means providing quality support and services to those who are under my care. My responsibility is to do all that is reasonably practical for them to stay healthy and safe at all times, as well as maintain their dignity, privacy, and independence when providing them with any kind of assistance or advice.
It is also important for me to be aware of what constitutes abuse – physical, sexual, or emotional – and to take appropriate action if any signs emerge that suggest this has occurred. In addition, it is essential that confidential information about clients remains private at all times – both verbally during conversations between myself and colleagues/clients, as well as electronically in regards to file storage and data protection practices being implemented correctly and monitored on an ongoing basis.
I should act in accordance with laws and regulations relevant to industry standards, consult professionals where necessary before making decisions related directly or indirectly to the care of a client, and continue learning in order to stay up-to-date with any relevant changes.
When providing care, I must strive to empower those under my supervision by demonstrating patience and understanding, as well as taking an active interest in their lives and always being approachable and listening attentively when they need help or want someone they can talk to. Above all else, it is imperative that clients feel safe and respected at all times while receiving treatment from me.
Having a duty of care means going above and beyond what is expected, just “doing your job” – treating people not only according to industry standards but also with kindness, empathy, and respect each day I provide my services.
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 the safeguarding or protection of individuals
- 2.1 Describe conflicts or dilemmas that may arise between the duty of care and an individual’s rights
- 2.2 Describe how to manage risks associated with conflicts or dilemmas between an individual’s rights and the duty of care
- 2.3 Explain where to get additional support and advice about conflicts and dilemmas
- 3.1 Describe how to respond to complaints
- 3.2 Explain policies and procedures relating to the handling of complaints