Organisations and individuals that work to promote and protect dignity in Derby have been recognised at a special event. The annual Derby Dignity Tea was held by Derby Safeguarding Adults Board as part of Dignity Action Month.

Taking place during February, Dignity Action Month promotes upholding dignity, respect, kindness, and compassion in care services. It’s a chance to highlight positive work and create memorable experiences for those receiving care, ensuring they are treated as individuals with choice, control, and purpose.

The Dignity Tea, held at the Council House, saw a range of professionals recognised for always upholding the dignity of the people they work with. Certificates of recognition were presented by Richard Proctor, Independent Chair of Derby Safeguarding Adults Board, and the Mayor of Derby, Councillor Ged Potter.

Dignity Awards went to Aspen House Care Home in Littleover, New Lodge Nursing Home in Mickleover and One to One Support Services, which provides specialised in-home care. They all demonstrated how they follow the ‘10 Dignity Dos’ – the values and actions of high-quality services that respect people's dignity.

Handyside Court in Alvaston received a Community Respect Award, which recognises community and voluntary sector organisations that demonstrate their ongoing commitment to delivering dignified services.

Ruth Gipson Sanderson, Housing Manager at Handyside Court, said:

It means a lot of us to receive this award. We work really hard to make sure Handyside Court is our residents’ home – they’re at the centre of everything we do.

Handyside Court residents Freda Fletcher, aged 85, and Dennis Shillcock, aged 96, accompanied staff to the event. Freda said:

My family always say they don’t worry about me because they know I’m safe and happy, and if I need help with anything, the staff are there. They do such a wonderful job.

This year, for the first time, Dignity Champion Awards were presented to individuals for their efforts to actively promote dignity. Awards went to Tracy Potter from the Alzheimer’s Society, Anna Tyson from Citizens’ Advice, Julie Tomlinson from DHU Healthcare, Jo Collins from Derventio Housing and Lisa Wilson from Derby City Council. Despite their different roles, all the winners demonstrated a person-centred approach in their work, ensuring the voices of patients, residents and families are heard.

A special award was given to Michelle Payne following her retirement from her role as manager of the Council’s short break respite facility. The award recognised Michelle’s tireless work with service users, families and other professionals to making dignity a priority and her contribution to the work of DSAB.

Councillor Alison Martin, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Care, said:

I'm truly inspired by the work of everyone we've recognised today. Our award winners are showing us what it means to treat others with kindness and put them at the heart of decision-making. We’re all caring for others in some way, and hopefully receiving care from others too. Dignity is something we can all contribute to. 

Every single one of us can play a part in making Derby a more compassionate place. We can all make small changes that can make a big difference.

Derby Safeguarding Adult Board (DSAB) is a multi-agency partnership committed to working together to ensure that adults who have care and support needs in Derby are supported to safeguard themselves from abuse and can report any concerns they may have.

Together with partner agencies, DSAB would like to invite everyone in Derby to think about dignity and treating each other with respect in all areas of our lives, not only in care. One way to get involved is to become a Dignity Champion. To find our more, visit the Dignity in Care website.