When we first started working more closely with the families of people MacIntyre supports, we realised there was a need to set out exactly what families can expect from us.
We wanted to define how communication between families and staff works at its best. Families told us that respect and honesty were crucial to them. We knew that the best results for their loved ones came through collaboration.
What developed out of this was MacIntyre’s Family Charter – our agreement with families, developed with families.
What does the Family Charter cover?
It sets out our overall goal: to recognise the importance of the relationship between families and MacIntyre by appreciating each person’s unique history and family dynamic.
Together, we define:
- Good communication
- Respect for families
- Honesty
- Working together
- Keeping commitments
- Building trust
- Acknowledging mistakes
- Clear expectations
- Improving practice
The advantages
The Family Charter defines and underlines so much of how we work with the families of people who draw on our support. It helps our staff understand our expectations of them in their relationships with families. It reassures people we support that we respect their own family relationships.
We’ve all found The Family Charter a valuable resource and baseline since it was introduced, and we’re happy to be celebrating it again today. With special thanks to all the families who helped us develop it.
