February is Dignity Action Month and this year’s theme, “3 Little Deeds”, invites us to take up small, simple actions that uphold the dignity of others.
Will you join in the challenge and pick three little deeds that will make dignity come alive for the people you interact with?
There’s no need to stop at three! Why not keep a record of the times you experience dignity in action throughout the month. You may find that taking time to recognise dignifying deeds (including when others have treated you with dignity) helps you to make prioritising dignity a year-long habit.
What do we mean by dignity?
At its heart, dignity is all about treating people with respect, kindness, and compassion. A quick online search will tell you dignity is about treating others the way you’d want to be treated, and while that’s true, the real challenge lies in putting ourselves in someone else’s shoes — even when they don’t quite fit! Upholding someone’s dignity means recognising their wants and needs, respecting their choices, and supporting their sense of self-worth. Asking ourselves: what does dignity mean to me? is a good place to start. But this month, let’s dig a little deeper and ask: How can I show dignity in a way that truly matters to someone else?
Three little deeds
For a memorable Dignity Action Month, focus on what matters to those you interact with. Here are some ideas for your “three little deeds”*:
*they don’t have to be complicated!
#1 Time for Digni-Tea: An act of dignity can be as simple as inviting a friend, colleague, or someone who might be feeling isolated to join you for a cup of tea (other drinks are available!) Making space for one-on-one conversation and connection shows a person you value them, and provides space to discover more about what dignity means to them.
#2 Listen and Act: Doesn’t it feel great when someone remembers what you told them? It feels even better when they do something to show you they remember and care. You may not have the power to grant someone’s heart’s desire, but you can show that you understand and care about what they value. Know someone who’d love to visit Paris, but a trip isn’t on the cards? Show them you care by whipping up a French feast and listening to some vintage Parisian tunes together.
#3 Do a Dignity Audit: You might decide to take a step back and evaluate how well you’re meeting the needs of others in your workplace, community, or service. Dignity in Care has published a range of audits to help you reflect on dignity-in-action in your context. Completing a Dignity Audit is a great commitment for anyone wanting to improve how they show respect and uphold dignity.
#4 Activism, Advocacy and Allyship: Supporting others to have their stories and experiences heard – and their needs met and recognised – is a powerful way to uphold dignity. Speaking up for the dignity of others can be as simple as: celebrating or backing a friend up in a conversation with others, writing to your MP about issues that matter, or planning and attending campaign events. When we do this, it’s important we remember to stand with rather than speak for – and to involve the people at the heart of the conversation in a way that’s accessible to them. Mencap has some great resources about creating change that positively impacts people with learning disabilities in our society, something we are very passionate about at Abacus.
#5 Grow a Digni-tree: Okay, this one doesn’t necessarily involve planting a tree… but what we can grow is our understanding of what dignity is. This twist on a wish tree invites people in a family, workplace or community to share and display personal stories, quotes, or experiences that demonstrate dignity to them. This could include moments when they felt truly respected or a time someone showed them kindness. It’s a simple way to reflect on the importance of dignity and inspire others to do the same.
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Closing thoughts
Dignity is fundamental to our work at Abacus Care & Support. We understand that people with complex care needs — whether it’s learning disabilities, mental health conditions, or behavioural support requirements — are often not treated with the respect or dignity they deserve. Too often, they are overlooked, undervalued, or made to feel less-than. We believe everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, and given opportunities to make choices that are meaningful to them. When individuals require support, prompts or supervision to make these choices, the way we dignify them is particularly important.
At Abacus, we have seen time and time again that individuals with unique challenges bring unique gifts to the table. When supported with dignity, they are empowered to thrive.
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Sources which informed this post:
https://www.dignityincare.org.uk
https://paragonskills.co.uk/supporting-dignity-action-month-with-paragon-skills/