Explain where get additional support & advice about conflict & dilemma

2.3. Explain where to get additional support and advice about conflicts and dilemmas

Course – Level 3 diploma in care (RQF)

Unit 3 – Duty of Care in Care Settings

L.O 2 – Know how to address conflicts or dilemmas that may arise between an individual’s rights and the duty of care

Being willing to seek additional support and advice about conflicts or dilemmas is part of providing exemplary care, meeting your duty of care regarding the decisions or lifestyles of individuals, and upholding the rights of the individuals in your care. In care settings, for example, conflicts and dilemmas may arise when you feel the choices of individuals may threaten their dignity or safety, or when your perceived responsibilities to individuals as a carer may conflict with your personal beliefs or wishes of the service user.

Internal sources of support:

Line Managers or Supervisors: Sometimes your line manager or supervisor is the first point of call. They often have relevant experience in interpreting policy and can help you come up with workable solutions for complicated issues within your organisation's requirements.

Colleagues and Peer Support: Consulting with a more experienced colleague or team member can often provide fresh ideas and solutions based on their experience of having dealt with the same issue.

Human Resources (HR) Department: HR is well-positioned to provide input into formal processes, workplace mediation, and assurance that issues are dealt with according to the legislation and your organisation's policies.

Organisational Policies and Procedures: Refer to your organisation's policy and procedures documents for guidance on dealing with ethical dilemmas and safeguarding issues or reporting processes. Relying on your organisational policy document helps to ensure that there is consistency and fairness in the service you are providing.

External sources are helpful for a wider view and contemporary best practice:

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is the principal UK authority that will help you find more information, recommendations, and guidance for care environments. The HSE has extensive resources, including downloaded templates and case studies, as well as legal considerations and updates, all on their website.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provides guidance and standards for regulating care

Professional organisations – such as the British Safety Council or the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health – provide opportunities to attend training, publications, and updates on legislation.

Local authorities, fire services, specialist health professionals (such as occupational therapists), and manufacturers: Important for dealing with specific risk or queries involving specific equipment.

Online resources, forums, and professional networks: modern alternatives to sharing experiences and receiving speedy guidance and advice from other professionals in care.