Control, Choice and Consent: Foundations of Person-Centred Support

August 1, 2025

Blog 4 of 7 in our mini-series on Person-Centred Approaches: Core Principles & Values
This post looks at how control, choice and consent are not optional extras — they are the building blocks of person-centred support.

At the heart of person-centred support lies one key principle: people must have genuine control over their lives. That means not just asking for views, but actively adapting how support is delivered. Choice and consent are not optional extras — they’re fundamental rights that underpin dignity and autonomy.

🗣️ Real Choice, Not Illusion

Many providers offer the appearance of choice — such as selecting a preferred time slot or choosing between meals. But true person-centred support allows people to:

Decide who supports them and how that support is delivered
Shape daily routines around their lifestyle, not the service’s convenience
Opt in or out of activities, support plans, or scheduled reviews

This requires flexible systems and a culture that treats people as leaders in their own lives, not passive recipients of a service.

✅ Embedding Consent in Everyday Practice

Consent should be continuous, not a one-off tick-box. Support staff must be trained to seek consent in every interaction — and to respect when it’s not given. This includes:

Checking before entering a room or offering physical assistance
Explaining what’s happening in clear, accessible language
Recognising and honouring non-verbal cues and preferences

Where someone lacks capacity, best interest decisions must still reflect what matters to the person, including past and present wishes.

📑 How to Evidence This in Tenders

Commissioners want to see how these values translate into practice. In your tender response, show:

How people shape their support plans and make daily choices
How staff are trained in consent, capacity, and supported decision-making
How choice and control are monitored through feedback and quality checks

This isn’t about ticking compliance boxes — it’s about enabling people to live lives that reflect their own values, goals and identity.

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🚀 Need a Bid Writing Quote?

If you’re exploring support for an upcoming tender or framework, request a quick, no-obligation quote. I’ll review your documents and respond with:

A clear scope of work
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🚀 Ready to Win Your Next Bid?

Chat on WhatsApp or email Mike.Harrison@impact-guru.co.uk

Updated for Procurement Act 2023 • CQC-aligned • BASE-aligned (where relevant)

Explore all 7 blogs in our mini-series on Person-Centred Approaches: Core Principles & Values