Taking a human rights approach in our work is so much more than knowing what the Human Rights Act 1998 contains. It is a way of working that aligns with social work values and ethics, promoting participation, dignity, the social model of disability, and anti-discriminatory practice.

This workshop will introduce and explore a human rights approach in adult social care. The current legislative context will be discussed, considering how human rights have been affected post-pandemic.

Participants will examine what research and lived experiences can tell us about the benefits of a human rights approach, alongside examples of case law. The workshop will consider how we can promote a human rights approach in our work.

Designed for

Social care practitioners working directly with adults.

Learning outcomes

As a result of attending this workshop participants will be able to:

• Explore human rights in the UK as they relate to adult social care.
• Understand a human rights approach in the context of legal literacy, the social model of disability, and anti-discriminatory practice.
• Identify the benefits and challenges of a human rights approach from research and lived experience.
• Discuss examples of a human rights approach, particularly thinking about balancing risk and rights.
• Examine legal literacy and case law to support taking a human rights approach in their work.
• Outline how a human rights approach in their work might evolve or change in the future.
• Consider their personal development in terms of a human rights approach.