Personality disorder programme No longer a diagnosis of exclusion

Sir Michael Parkinson and Care Services Minister Phil Hope launched the The People’s Award for Dignity in Care. The first ever award which recognises people who treat patients with dignity and respect and who provide outstanding care.

Minister of State for Care Services, Phil Hope said:

“People want and have a right to expect services with dignity and respect at their heart, so I am delighted to launch the Dignity in Care Awards today so we can celebrate those people dedicated to raising standards of care all across the country.

“Any member of the public can nominate a member of staff or team for the Dignity in Care Awards, which will recognise and reward high standards of care. Ultimately, higher standards will enable people to live their own lives as they wish, confident that services are of high quality, are safe and promote their own individual needs for independence, well-being and dignity.”

Notes to Editors:

Nominations for the Dignity Awards open soon and close 6 March 2009. To register interest, go to http://www.healthandsocialcareawards.org.uk and click on ‘Register your Interest’. You will be sent details of how to make a nomination.

For further details or to sign up to become a dignity champion see http://www.dignityincare.org.uk