Our principles and behaviours shape how we support people, how we collaborate and how we make decisions. They reflect our commitment to putting people first, working together and continuously improving.
We are guided by dignity and respect, listening carefully to what people tell us and adapting our services to meet their needs.
Our approach is listening and responsive, adapting to individual needs rather than expecting people to fit into systems. We strive to be inclusive and accessible, tailoring our services so everyone can be heard and engage meaningfully.
We believe in a team around the person, where support is not defined by organisational boundaries but by what matters to the individual. We work in a strengths-based way, focusing on people’s abilities, networks and aspirations.
We live by the principle of “nothing about me without me”, “working with”, not “delivering to”, people. We promote empowerment, recognising people want to be in control of their lives and we remain aware of unintended consequences, always reflecting on our impact.
We “think community”, recognising the importance of wider networks and relationships working in partnership to deliver joined-up care that makes sense to the person receiving it.
We are legally literate, confident in applying the law to uphold people’s rights and ensure safe, ethical practice.
We recognise individuals need opportunities to make healthy life choices and we aim to reduce, delay or prevent the need for formal care, by supporting people early and promoting wellbeing.
We believe safeguarding is everyone’s business, and we act with professional curiosity, asking the right questions and having honest, care-frontational conversations when needed.
We value openness, welcoming new ideas and being honest about what’s working and what needs to change.
Accountability and integrity are central to our work. We own our decisions and actions, and we track outcomes to manage resources effectively.
Finally, we recognise the importance of learning, where continuous development and reflection is supported and encouraged. Our leaders are expected to walk the talk, modelling the behaviours we value and inspiring others to do the same.
Together, these principles create a culture of care that is compassionate, inclusive, and focused on helping people in Dorset live the lives they choose.
