Case Study

Simon is a 30-year-old man who has been disabled since he was 10 years of age. He has had a variety of health issues. The main cause of his disability is brain damage that has left both of his legs paralysed. Simon was recently admitted into hospital to have further surgery. Following the surgery he was being cared for in a respite centre for a few days before going home to his self-contained flat. While in the centre he was visited by his mother who has been his main carer since his condition deteriorated and he needed more assistance.While in the centre his mother, with Simon’s consent, took photos of his recent wounds because Simon was keeping a diary of events so that he could monitor any improvement. Simon and his mother are very close and had spent a lot of time in and out of hospitals over the last 20 years. The senior carer, Mandy, saw this activity and asked Simon’s mother to stop. When she continued to take the photos, Mandy told her that she did not like this activity and that she would seek advice.The manager was consulted, and said that if Simon and his mother did not stop taking these photos she would consider calling the police.

1. Was this a case of the individual having control of choices and decisions?
2. What action could you take as a supervisor in this case?
3. What strategies could you use to challenge stereotypes, and prejudicial or discriminatory attitudes?

It is rare that there is just one way to respond to a scenario or situation, so do not consider that the responses you have to the above scenario will be judged as right or wrong. Share your scenario with a work colleague or friend and ask them to tell you whether they think you have responded appropriately. Ask them to challenge your response if necessary. You do not need to submit this task for assessment unless asked to do so by your assessor.