Duty of Care and Duty of Candour

As a care worker, you have a legal duty to protect the health, safety, and well-being of those you support. At its core, the duty of care means acting in the best interests of individuals and doing everything reasonable to prevent harm, injury, or abuse. It includes everything from maintaining hygiene and administering medication safely, to recognising signs of neglect or distress and reporting concerns without delay.  This duty is guided by a few important characteristics. As a care worker, you’re expected to carry out your role responsibly and in line with your training and capabilities. You’re also expected to be aware, always observing for signs that someone might be unsafe or unwell.

Now, while the duty of care is about preventing harm and promoting safety, the duty of candour comes into play when things don’t go as planned. The duty of candour is a legal and moral requirement to be open and honest when an incident occurs that causes harm or has the potential to do so.  The Duty of Candour involves four key actions. Providing support to the person affected. Notifying them of what happened as soon as possible. Disclosing the relevant facts clearly and completely. Explaining any potential consequences and steps taken to prevent a recurrence. These actions build trust, even in difficult moments. It acknowledges that honesty, empathy, and taking responsibility are essential in professional care.

As a care worker, both the duty of care and duty of Candour are central to your daily role. They guide your actions, inform your decisions, and ensure that the people in your care are treated with respect and professionalism. Whether you’re helping someone get dressed, responding to a medical emergency, or simply listening to a concern, your duty of care is always active.