Alana Caloe
Unit 8: Promote Communication in Health, Social Care or Children’s and Young Peoples Settings

1.1 Identify the different reasons people communicate.

People communicate for different reasons, to share their feelings, emotions, pain, opinions, etc. The communication could be professional (formal), or personal (informal). It is important within a social work environment that information is recorded, as it may be needed for legal reasons. All communications are confidential, and on a “need to know”, basis. Communication between colleagues is essential, so that it ensures a continuity of care for the client, and all staff is aware of the current needs of the client.

1.2 Explain how communication affects relationships in the work setting.
1.3
Communication in the workplace is an important part of my job role. It builds good relationships with my colleagues, and parents and children.

If communication techniques that are used are ineffective, this could lead to problems with the relationships within the workplace. If there is ineffective communication then it can result in lack of trust and confidence also you could give the wrong type of care and important information could be missed which could result in harm.

2.1 Demonstrate how to establish the communication and language needs, wishes and preferences of individuals.
2.2
I can find out an individual’s preferred communication methods by: asking the child, reading their learning journeys, ask relatives, ask colleagues, medical notes etc. I can also make my own observations as I support them, and share my findings with my colleagues, and record in their learning journeys. Their individual communication needs should be reflective of their: culture, beliefs, or religion, and above all their individual preferences and according to their needs.

2.2 Describe the factors to consider when promoting effective communication.

Is the environment adequate for the communication( well lit, quiet, confidential etc)

Does the person have the abilities to understand (SEN, learning disability)

Do you have to adapt your communication for the individual (speak louder, use hand gestures etc)

Does the person need an interpreter or family member to be present

How is the person going to respond to the communication

Are you invading the individuals personal space

Are you sure of the facts, that you are communicating correctly

2.3 Demonstrate a range of communication methods and styles to meet individual needs.

There are times when we need to adapt our communication style to meeting the needs of individuals and use aids to help them enhance their communication.

Hearing Impairment
Hearing loss is an invisible disability, so it can become a big communication barrier. Hearing impaired people have to concentrate very hard to pick up information in stages and written information. Aids that can help these people are hearing aids, learning sign language and lip reading.

Visual Impairment
This can make a person very disorientated if in a strange place or they lose their glasses. When caring for a person who is blind, verbal communication has an increased importance.

Learning difficulties and language barriers
It can be difficult to communicate with a person who speaks no English; you may need to use picture boards so they can understand or interpret what they require.

Gender differences
A female service user may not want a male carer caring for her.

Cultural differences
Commonly used gestures can sometimes have different meanings in other cultures. Familiarise yourself with the cultures of those you are caring for so you are able to treat them with respect.

Communication and Autism
People with autism have difficulties with both verbal and non-verbal language. Many have a very literal understanding of language, and think people always mean exactly what they say.

They can find it difficult to use or understand:
Facial expressions or tone of voice
Jokes and sarcasm
Common