The Open University (OU) recently presented new research at the House of Lords, suggesting relational care may solve our social care sector’s problems. Read the full article here, and access the full report here. It is important to note that the OU report is based on “relational care with older people.”
What is relational care?
Relational care is an approach to caregiving that emphasises building and maintaining meaningful relationships between caregivers and care recipients. It recognises that care is about meeting physical needs and attending to emotional, social, and psychological well-being.
Relationship focussed
Relational care places relationships at the centre of the caregiving process. It recognises that a strong and trusting relationship between the caregiver and the care recipient is essential for effective care.
Person- centred
It prioritises the unique needs, preferences, and values of the individual receiving care. When practising relational care, caregivers strive to understand the person’s background, beliefs and desires to tailor their care approach accordingly.
Empathy and compassion
Relational care involves showing kindness and compassion towards the care recipient. Caregivers actively listen, validate emotions, and respond with sensitivity to foster a sense of emotional connection and support.
Communication
Effective communication is crucial in relational care. Caregivers actively engage in open and honest dialogue, seeking to understand the care recipient’s concerns, desires, and feedback. They communicate with respect and clarity to establish trust and foster collaboration.
Trust and respect
Building trust and respect is fundamental to relational care. Caregivers create a safe and supportive environment where care recipients feel valued, heard, and treated with dignity.
Continuation and consistency
Relational care recognises the importance of continuity in caregiving relationships. Consistent and reliable support builds trust and enables caregivers better to understand the evolving needs of the care recipient.
Emotional support
Collaboration and empowerment
Putting it into practice
Relational care recognises that the quality of relationships between caregivers and care recipients significantly impacts both parties’ overall well-being and satisfaction. By prioritising meaningful connections, empathy, and person-centred approaches, relational care aims to enhance the caregiving experience and improve outcomes for those needing care.
As a care provider, our mission is to pave the way for synergistic social care. With similar fundamentals to Relational care, Synergistic social care advocates the health and well-being of our staff and service users. We understand that deep relationships, connections, and community should be a shared experience; therefore, the quality of care we provide follows the support and nurture we offer our staff.
If you are interested in how we operate as a care provider for adults with disabilities, take a look at our values-. Dignity in health & social care (3tcs.co.uk)
