Guidance on Sheila’s story

acts

Sheila lives in a care home. She has mild dementia and also uses a walking stick. She loves gardening and wants to get outside to move a flower which is in the wrong place. The door is locked however, and she can’t get out.

The support worker discourages her from going outside on the basis that it is not safe for her, it is nearly dinner time and is about to rain. Sheila gets quite distressed about this. It seems that she is not being listened to. She might require support to help her express her views.

Later, we learn from a conversation between care workers that it is recorded in Sheila’s care plan that she loves the outdoors and that in the past when she has spent time outdoors her behaviour has shown less signs of distress and her medication had been reduced.

nalysis of rights at stake

The potential human rights at stake here are:

  • Article 8 (right to a private and family life) - for a meaningful home life Sheila would require access to activities and be able to participate in decisions about her care.

  • Article 5 (the right to liberty and security) - Sheila is essentially locked into the home and unable to leave.

dentification of shared responsibilities

Care home has a responsibility to provide for a meaningful private home and family life which includes meaningful activities for the residents. The care home also has a responsibility to ensure that Sheila’s preferences, likes and dislikes are listened to and she can participate in decisions about her care. If Sheila is unable to provide this information herself then her family members should also be involved and, if necessary, advocacy support could be sought.

eview actions

  • Has Sheila got the support she needs to express her views?

  • Have Sheila’s likes/dislikes and preferences about her care been recorded in her care and support plan?

  • Are the care workers aware of Sheila’s likes/ dislikes and preferences?

  • Have changes been made to allow her access to the garden?

  • Have there been changes in Sheila’s mood or behaviour as a result? Have there been changes to her medication?

  • Is Sheila happier?