Observing the reactions of an individual when communicating is important to identify:
- Whether they have understood what has been said to them via facial expression/ body language or verbal response. The client would usually carry out the action or respond if they have understood what has been communicated.
- To identify if there are things that are being done or said that the client does not like.
This can be noticed in change of mood, body language or verbal aggression. Observing the person for changes in mood and frustration, these could possibly impact on the communication. Via.
- By learning about an individual’s communication and language needs you can make sure that any aids or TATS (Assisted Technology) are available to them i. E. Pen/paper, interpreter, picture board. This gives chance for the clients’ needs to be met.
- By finding out about the clients wishes and preferences you can give a more personal centered approach and make the client feel valued.
If a client is of a different faith learn about their faith, this will enable effective communication.
- Colleagues If communication is good between colleagues it ensures that information is shared aiding job satisfaction. This will have a positive effect on the care worker, relieving stress and pressure. This leads to job satisfaction and a happy workforce.
- Individuals using the service If communication is good between worker and client it leads to an increase in trust and confidentiality from the client. Good communication would put the client at the centre of their care, making them feel valued as an individual, supporting a person centered approach to care.
- Other Professionals Having the correct information and using the correct language can help communication with other professionals. Using formal language will give a sense of knowledge to the other professionals and enable them to have the correct information in relation to the service user.
Agencies can share knowledge and skills between themselves helping build relationships and understanding. Aviva. Barrier How it can be reduced
- Hearing Difficulties For an individual is hard of hearing as opposed to profoundly deaf ensure any hearing aids they have are in correct working order and in use, talk clearly acing the individual without covering the mouth so they can lip read if they wish, ensure there is little or no background noise or other people talking. If an individual is profoundly deaf and uses sign language to communicate ensure that an interpreter is available.
- Visual Impairment For an individual with a visual impairment words and appropriate touch are important in communication. If an individual uses other formats to communicate i. E. Braille, large print or audio books ensure these are available for the individual.
- Language differences If an individual doesn’t speak the same language as the social care worker he worker needs to ensure that an interpreter is available family/ friend or a professional. Use simple instructions as the client may be able to understand bits of your language. Picture cards for basic instructions/ items can be used so that the client can express his/her wants and needs.
