Wellbeing Principle
Section 1 of The Care Act 2014 introduces a duty to promote wellbeing when carrying out any care and support functions in respect of a person. This is sometimes referred to as “the wellbeing principle” because it is a guiding principle that puts wellbeing at the heart of care and support.
The wellbeing principle applies in all situations where a care and support function is being carried out, a decision is being made, or in respect of safeguarding interventions. It applies equally to adults with care and support needs and their carers.
‘Wellbeing’ is a broad concept, and it is described as relating to the following areas in particular:
- personal dignity (including treatment of the individual with respect)
- physical and mental health and emotional wellbeing
- protection from adult abuse
- control by the individual over day-to-day life (including over care and support provided and the way it is provided)
- participation in work, education, training or recreation
- social and economic wellbeing
- domestic, family and personal relationships
- suitability of living accommodation
- individual’s contribution to society
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Promoting ‘wellbeing’ means actively seeking improvements, at every stage in relation to the adult with care and support needs (regardless of whether they have eligible needs or not) and carers. It is a shift from providing services to the concept of ‘meeting needs’.
Promoting ‘wellbeing’ should inform planning of individual care packages, delivery of universal services and strategic planning. To promote ‘wellbeing’ it should be assumed that individuals are best placed to judge their own wellbeing; their individual views, beliefs, feelings and wishes are paramount, and individuals should be empowered to participate as fully as possible. Promoting an individual’s ‘wellbeing’ should be balanced with that of their carers.