Since I joined the Dignity in Care Campaign as its national dignity ambassador last year, thousands more people have joined as dignity champions.

Some, like me, were inspired to do so from personal experience. For many it is through a professional desire to do their utmost to give the people they support the best possible care. Together, we are united in our efforts to create a care system that has compassion and respect for those using its services.

As dignity ambassador, I have seen some excellent care and met some truly inspirational people. But I have also heard about people being left without sufficient food or water, and people suffering the inhumanity of no privacy during the most personal intimate care. Surely, in our supposedly progressive society, that this happens in our care system is unthinkable. But it would seem not.

It is rare that I come across anyone who does not have their own dignity story. There is no doubt that it is a key issue not only for people using health and social care but also for their carers and families.

We all contribute to our local care services and those who are our local elected representatives and senior managers must get the best deal for us locally and challenge services that do not make the grade.

I think local government is in a unique position of power and influence to ensure that local people get the care services they deserve. It can look beyond the traditional boundaries of care and influence the way other services — such as leisure services, benefits advice, libraries, housing and many other activities — are carried out. To ensure dignity and respect for all is in its hands, and is our responsibility.

Witnessing my mother’s experience in care, where I saw a mixture of indifference and wonderful nursing, inspired me to take action but I am in the fortunate position of being easily heard. I hope I can inspire local government to become our dignity champions to act on behalf of us all and in particular those who may not have a voice.

Sir Michael Parkinson is a journalist and broadcaster. The Dignity in Care campaign aims to increase respect for older people in care.

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