Here is a research overview on communication based on guidance and information from the Mencap website, written in an accessible training / Easy Read–friendly style that you can later turn into PowerPoint, Word book, or training packs.
Communication Research
From Mencap Guidance (Learning Disability Context)
1. What is Communication?
Communication is how we:
-
Share information
-
Express needs and feelings
-
Ask questions
-
Build relationships
-
Make choices
Communication is not just talking. It includes:
-
Body language
-
Facial expressions
-
Gestures
-
Pictures or symbols
-
Technology (AAC devices)
People with a learning disability may communicate in different ways.
2. Why Communication Support is Important
Mencap research highlights that good communication support helps people:
-
Be understood
-
Feel respected
-
Make decisions
-
Stay safe
-
Access healthcare and education
-
Reduce anxiety and frustration
Poor communication can lead to:
-
Isolation
-
Mental health problems
-
Misunderstanding
-
Behaviour seen as “challenging”
Often the issue is not the person — it is the communication barrier.
3. Common Communication Barriers
People with learning disabilities may experience:
Understanding Barriers
-
Complex words
-
Jargon or professional language
-
Fast speech
-
Too much information at once
Expression Barriers
-
Speech difficulties
-
Limited vocabulary
-
Anxiety when speaking
-
Processing delays
Environmental Barriers
-
Noisy rooms
-
Poor lighting
-
Lack of privacy
-
Rushed appointments
4. Mencap Communication Principles
Mencap promotes person-centred communication.
Key principles include:
✔ Use Clear Language
-
Use simple words
-
Short sentences
-
One idea at a time
Example:
Instead of “We will review your eligibility criteria”
Say: “We will check what support you can get.”
✔ Give Processing Time
Many people need longer to:
-
Hear information
-
Understand meaning
-
Form a response
Do not rush or interrupt.
✔ Check Understanding
Do not just ask: “Do you understand?”
Instead ask:
-
“Can you tell me what we are doing next?”
-
“Would you like me to explain again?”
✔ Use Visual Support
Mencap recommends:
-
Pictures
-
Symbols
-
Easy Read documents
-
Visual timetables
-
Social stories
Visuals reduce anxiety and improve understanding.
5. Non-Verbal Communication
Research shows much communication is non-verbal.
Look for:
-
Facial expressions
-
Eye contact
-
Posture
-
Gestures
-
Changes in behaviour
These may show:
-
Pain
-
Anxiety
-
Happiness
-
Confusion
Behaviour is often communication.
6. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
Some people use AAC instead of speech.
Examples include:
-
Communication boards
-
Picture Exchange Systems (PECS)
-
Speech devices
-
Apps and tablets
AAC supports:
-
Independence
-
Choice-making
-
Emotional expression
7. Healthcare Communication (Mencap Findings)
Mencap research into health inequalities found communication failures can lead to:
-
Misdiagnosis
-
Untreated pain
-
Medication errors
-
Avoidable deaths
Support strategies include:
-
Easy Read appointment letters
-
Hospital passports
-
Longer appointment times
-
Carer involvement (with consent)
8. Emotional Impact of Communication Barriers
When people are not understood, they may feel:
-
Frustrated
-
Anxious
-
Ignored
-
Powerless
This can lead to:
-
Withdrawal
-
Distress
-
Behaviour escalation
Good communication improves mental wellbeing.
9. Good Practice Skills (Staff & Professionals)
Mencap recommends professionals develop:
Active Listening
-
Full attention
-
Eye contact
-
Nodding
-
Reflecting back words
Empathy
-
Understand feelings
-
Be patient
-
Avoid judgement
Adaptability
-
Change communication style
-
Use visuals
-
Adjust pace
Respect & Dignity
-
Speak to the person, not carers
-
Use age-appropriate language
-
Promote choice
10. Easy Read Communication Standards
Easy Read should include:
-
Simple text
-
Large font
-
Images or symbols
-
Clear spacing
-
One idea per line
This supports literacy and understanding.
11. Legal & Rights Context
Communication links to human rights, including:
-
Right to information
-
Right to consent
-
Right to healthcare access
-
Equality and disability inclusion
Failure to provide accessible communication can be discrimination.
Summary
Mencap communication research shows:
-
Communication is a basic human right
-
Barriers create inequality
-
Visual and Easy Read tools improve understanding
-
Staff training is essential
-
Person-centred approaches reduce distress
-
Good communication improves health and wellbeing
Next Step
Would you like me to turn this into:
-
Easy Read PowerPoint
-
Word training book
-
Trainer lesson plan
-
Level 1 & 2 quiz
I can produce all formats step-by-step 👍
No comments:
Post a Comment