Introduction to Communication in Health and Social Care (Adults and Children and Young People)

Learning Objectives

By the end of the end of the session you will

1.Identify a range of communication methods

2.Outline how to identify an individual’s communication and language needs, wishes and preferences

3.Identify a range of barriers to communication

4.Describe factors that promote communication and overcome barriers

What is Effective Communication?

• Communication is the way we exchange thoughts, opinions, facts and information.

• Communication is an essential part of a caring relationship and encourages trusting relationships with the individuals, other workers and families that you work with.

Message you want to send -

What I mean

How it’s sent – (tool) What is

received -What I

understand

Message you want to send -

What I mean

How it’s sent – (tool)

What is received -

What I understand

A and B = Participating CommunicatorsA B

Ways we Communicate

•Speaking/listening

•Writing/reading

•Body language/non-verbal

Effective Spoken Communication

• Ensure that you speak clearly• Give clear instructions• Use appropriate language• Use appropriate tone• Think of the person you are

speaking to• Be polite• Use language that will be understood

Ineffective Spoken Communication

• Being rude• Swearing• Using offensive language• Using slang• Making comments about

personal attributes• Not tailoring tone, rhythm,

speed of speech to the needs of the recipient.

Activity 3. Sentences

Group 1. •Call me if you’re going to be late

Group 2.•Do you want something to eat?

Group 3.•Where are you going tonight?

Draw a Holiday

Score:

10 points if your island is in the middle

10 points if your ship is to the left of the island, but not touching it

15 points if you have more than one fish

20 points if the base of the palm tree is on the island

15 points if more than two of the birds are in the air

20 points if the sailor is on the ship, not swimming

Draw a Holiday

Score:

15 points if any coconut is on the tree

25 points if any porthole is on the ship

25 points if the hula dancer is dancing on the island

20 points if the sun is to the left

15 points if the sun is on the right

10 points if the sun is in the middle

Closed Questions

A closed question could be answered with either a single word or a short phrase, usually 'yes' or 'no'.

•Can I help you with that?•Please may I have a piece of that pie?•Would you like to go to the cinema tonight?•Would you like to find a better supplier?

Open Questions

Open questions are likely to receive a longer answer.

They typically begin with the following words:

•What•Why•How•Where•Who

Open Questions

Examples of open questions.

•Why is that important to you?•How do you feel about that?•What did you do on your holiday?•Who will you invite to your party?•How did you approach working on that project?

Which Conveys the most Communication?

• Spoken word

• Tone of voice

• Body language

Which Conveys the Most Communication?

• Spoken word 7%

• Tone of voice 38%

• Body language 55%

Signs and Symbols

Signs and Symbols

Identifying Individuals’ Communication Needs

• Care/support plan• Ask the individual• Talk to your colleagues • Observe colleagues. • Family members• Communication Passport

Introduction to Communication in Health and Social Care (Adults and Children and Young People)