UNIT 2: Learning aim B, ways organisations represent interests of service users Flashcards
Organisations represent the interests of service users in the following ways:
Advocacy
Charities and patient groups
Complaints policies
Whistle blowing policies.
Advocacy
Enables a service user to: express their views and concerns so they are taken seriously; access information and services; defend and promote their right and responsibilities; explore choices and options.
To empower individuals with specific needs and enable them to challenge discrimination so they are not stigmatised.
Depends on needs of service user-Friends, family members and carers can act as advocates, an individual can self-advocate; some organisations and charities have professional advocacy services.
People with mental ill health, learning disability, children, people whose first language is not English, people with speech difficulties or confidence issues.
NSPCC
Works to prevent and end child abuse in the UK and offers advice on safeguarding and preventing neglect
Mental Health Foundation
Works to improve the lives of those with mental illness. Carries out research, promotes development and seeks to achieve good mental health for all.
shelter
Works to reduce homelessness, provides advice about tenancy and renting properties, promotes the need for safe, secure and affordable homes.
stonewall
Works to promote awareness of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT) issues to reduce prejudice and discrimination. Provides advice about sexual orientation.
what do charities do
-Representing their interests to government
-Carrying out research
-Providing advice and service
-Raising money
-Working in partnership with other organisations, including health and social care providers
-Changing public attitude
-Challenging prejudice
-Preventing discrimination
what do patient groups do
NHS organisations have a legal duty to involve the public in decisions about running local health services. Some Clinical Commissioning Groups have patient groups .
These groups:
Represent the interests of people with particular health needs.
Provide feedback on NHS services.
Provide volunteers.
Take part in research carried out by the NHS.
Having complaints policies
All HSC settings have a responsibility to ensure that their service users , their families and informal carers understand how to access and use complaints procedures if they are unhappy with the quality of care provided.
- Having whistleblowing policies
Whistleblowing policies provide protection for staff who tell the press or another organisation outside the setting in which they work, that the quality of care at their workplace, is dangerously poor.
