As we have already discussed, it is important to make sure that individuals are an active partner in their own care or support. One of the ways of working that supports this is ‘active participation’. Active participation supports an individual’s right to participate in the activities and relationships of everyday life as independently as possible by allowing them to do things how they want to.
One of the ways you can help contribute to active participation is by showing that you value the individual and all other people. Whatever their background or culture, you should make sure that they know that they are valued and you are doing your best to find solutions that work for them. For example, if an individual is religious and wants to celebrate a religious holiday, you should let them know that you value them regardless of their religion and provide them the opportunity to celebrate the religious holiday how they want to.
By doing this, you are contributing to active participation, and by extension, the individual’s independence. You are providing care that is person-centred and suited to the individual, and encouraging them to participate in all the events of everyday life.