1.4 Our own values, belief systems and experiences may affect working practise. Everyone has different values, beliefs and preferences. The way in which you respond to people is linked to what you believe in, what you consider important and what interests you. You may find you react positively to people who share your values and less warmly to people who have different priorities. When you develop friendships, it is natural to spend time with people who share your interests and values. However, the professional relationships you develop with people you support are another matter. As a professional, you are required to provide the same quality of support for all, not just for those who share your views and beliefs. Working in the care sector, you are bound to come across people whose views you do not agree with, and who never seem to understand your point of view. Awareness of differences, your reaction to them and how they affect the way you work is a crucial part of personal and professional development. If you allow your own preferences to dominate your work with people, you will fail to perform to the standards of the Codes of Practice for care workers set out by the UK regulating bodies. All the codes require care workers to respect and promote people’s individual views and wishes. We need to understand the values of others by showing empathy and applying the appropriate methods and styles of communication. By showing respect, none favouritism and consistency to all our patients if they have/do not share our own values or belief systems this should not affect our working practises.