4. The right to information and education

People are often keen to manage their own needs and conditions as much as possible. They should have access to the information and education they need to do this.

They should also be told from the outset about the rights they have and be given information about the services they are entitled to receive.

“Pharmacists are very good. The pharmacist will correct the GP or tell you to go to A&E if you should do. My pharmacist does talk to my GP to talk about the prescription to check it’s ok.”

What this could mean in practice

If you have diabetes, you should be able to find out how nutrition affects your condition and you should be given advice on how to manage your diet effectively.

If your dad wants to go into a care home, you should be able to find out about the support he could get from his council, the quality of the services available and what he would be expected to pay for himself.

If the NHS collects any confidential information about you, it should be kept safe and secure. You should be told how information about you might be used and you should be able to request that your confidential information is not used beyond your own care and treatment.