Regulatory Frameworks
Regulatory Frameworks
The Care Act 2014
- Introduced to integrate health and social care services.
- Imposes a general duty on councils to promote an individual’s well-being, covering their health, personal dignity, social and economic welfare among other factors.
- Outlines the responsibilities of local authorities in providing services and support to individuals with long-term physiological conditions.
- Requires local authorities to provide preventive services, reducing the needs for support in the future.
The Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014
- Sets out the requirements that providers must comply to in order to meet the fundamental standards of care.
- The Care Quality Commission (CQC) oversees the enforcement of these regulations.
- Failure to comply can result in penalties or restriction of operation.
Equality Act 2010
- Legally protects individuals from discrimination in the workplace and wider society.
- Provides for ‘reasonable adjustments’ to be made where a person with a disability might be at a substantial disadvantage compared to non-disabled people.
- Ensures individuals with long-term physiological conditions have equal access to employment, services, and transport among other areas.
Human Rights Act 1998
- Affirms the importance of respecting the dignity of individuals in the care sector.
- Sets out the fundamental rights such as the right to life, protection from inhuman or degrading treatment, and respect for private and family life.
- Care providers must ensure any actions taken are proportionate and respect these rights.
By understanding these regulatory frameworks, it becomes evident that there are robust measures in place to uphold the standards of care provided to individuals with long-term physiological conditions and to protect their rights and wellbeing.