A FORUM for over-50s in York is backing a campaign to ensure people in care are treated with dignity.

York Older People’s Assembly (YOPA) is raising awareness of this Saturday’s Dignity Action Day, which aims to remind all aspects of society about the importance of dignity in care.

It is holding an information point at Clements Hall, in Nunthorpe Road, to share ideas about how to promote respect and dignity in York.

Care homes across York and North Yorkshire are also holding events, with Lake and Orchard Care Centre in Kelfield putting on a week of events for its 70 residents to choose from, including a lunch, hairdressing and a religious service. Residents are also being invited to share their thoughts on dignity in care.

Pauline Buchanan, board member of YOPA, said: “In an era when sensational reports on the mistreatment of elderly and vulnerable people in care hit the headlines, it is reassuring to hear of initiatives to combat the attitudes which lie behind such treatment.

“The York Older People’s Assembly is backing the call by the National Dignity in Care Council for using a ten-point challenge to ensure that the elderly in care are treated with dignity.”

The ten points include zero tolerance of all abuse, supporting people with the same respect you would want for your family, treating people as individuals and offering a personalised service, helping people to maintain the maximum possible level of independence, choice and control, listening to needs and wants and respecting people's right to privacy.

Furthermore, people should be able to complain without fear of retribution, engage with family members and carers as care partners, helping people to maintain confidence and a positive self esteem and alleviating loneliness and isolation.

For more information, and to see what each care home in York is doing to mark the day, visit yorkassembly.org.uk/dignity-action-day

• YOPA will be staffing an information point on Saturday at Clements Hall between 10am to 4pm on Saturday.