MORE needs to be done to improve the dignity of care given to people treated in Oxfordshire a report has revealed.

The findings showed 93 per cent of people felt they had been threated with dignity but more could be done to improve treatment for those with communication difficulties or dementia.

Figures come from a report published today by Healthwatch Oxfordshire and Age UK Oxfordshire.

Healthwatch Oxfordshire chief executive Rachel Coney said: “This report shows that while patients in Oxfordshire are receiving a high level of dignity in their care, there is still much that can be improved about how people are treated when they need health and social care services. “

Results found that treatment of patients with communication difficulties were not always dignified and in a small number of cases were shocking.

It also found that people were reluctant to complain and people did not always feel involved in decisions about their care.

The Healthwatch report surveyed 161 patients and 57 staff, as well as multiple focus groups and case studies.

Age UK Oxfordshire chairman Diana Roberts said: “It is heartening to learn that the majority of people surveyed felt they were treated with dignity and respect.

"We now also have clear statements and evidence of areas where improvements can and must be made.  It is extremely encouraging that Oxfordshire County Council, the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust and the Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust are all committed to working with older people, families and other organisations to achieve what we are all want which is good quality care delivered with dignity whatever the setting.

"In the words of one staff member, people may not remember our names but they will always remember how we made them feel."

Healthwatch Oxfordshire made several recommendations following the report including improving two-way communication between staff and patients, promoting access to services such as interpretation and including discussions on maintaining dignity for patients in staff training.