People with Specific Needs

• ‘People with Specific Needs’ refers to any individuals who require a unique set of support services due to their health, mental condition, or age. This might include elderly people, those with disabilities, children, and individuals with chronic illnesses. Coordinated care is essential to ensure these needs are met effectively.

• Understand that disability is a complex issue resulting from the interplay between physical conditions and social barriers that restrict an individual’s ability to fully participate in society. It can be physical, intellectual, sensory, or mental and can occur at any stage in life.

• Care services and support for people with specific needs can be provided in a variety of settings, such as at home, in care homes, or through community organisations. These services aim to enhance the individual’s quality of life, promote their well-being, and uphold dignity.

• Recognise the importance of person-centred care. This approach sees individuals as active partners in their care, rather than passive recipients. It involves acknowledging their wants, necessities, and ways of living to provide an effective support system.

• Legislation exists to safeguard the rights of people with specific needs. Examples are the Equality Act 2010, the Care Act 2014, and the Mental Health Act 2007. These laws prevent discrimination and ensure equal access to services.

• Support agencies, such as the NHS, Social Services, and various charities, play a vital role in ensuring that individuals with specific needs receive adequate care. They can offer a range of services, including medical care, financial assistance, counselling, and advocacy.

• Health and social care professionals should foster strong relationships and effective communication with individuals with specific needs. This promotes trust, respect, empathy, and understanding. Active listening and clear communication are particularly important.

• End-of-life care is an essential part of this subject area; it focuses on the needs of individuals who are nearing the end of their life. It involves managing pain and other distressing symptoms, providing psychological, social, and spiritual support, and supporting families.

• Public attitudes, stereotypes, and stigmas can impact the provision of care and treatment to people with specific needs. Raising awareness and promoting understanding are essential to challenge and overcome these negative attitudes and perceptions.

• Ethical considerations in this field include respecting individual autonomy, ensuring the privacy and dignity of individuals, providing informed consent for treatments, and making decisions in the best interest of the individual.