[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]By Caring Times editor GEOFF HODGSON

It appears that the terms ‘employees’ and ‘staff’ are being increasingly supplanted by ‘colleagues’ and this is probably a good thing because, where the aspiration is bruited about, the reality may sometimes follow.

The use of colleagues is surely appropriate inasmuch that everyone who works in a care provider company – handyman, care worker, finance director, you name it, all have a common aim; to provide the best possible care with available resources.

The nay-sayers might point out that remuneratively, the cook and the chief executive are hardly in the ‘same league’ (which in strict etymological terms is implied by ‘colleague’) but really, is this not eclipsed by not only having a shared professional goal but also that the use of ‘colleague’ betokens mutual respect for each others’ skills, dedication and role as members of a team? – the goal can only be achieved if everyone discharges their separate and different duties.

The concept of ‘master and servant’ belongs to the days of Dickens. Employers and employees resonate of legal contracts and all the unpleasantness when positive relationships break down and, as already suggested, adoption of the term ‘colleague’ may lead to a truly collegiate approach to service provision.

• The CT Blog is written in a personal capacity – comments and opinions expressed are not necessarily endorsed or supported by Caring Times.

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