How to Help Communication Work Easy Read Training Section

 

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Communication Works Best With the Right Support

Communication is more successful when people have the support they need.

Support may include:

• Extra time

• Quiet spaces

• Easy Read information

• Communication tools

• One-to-one support

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Independence & Choice

People with disabilities have the right to independence.

Even when they need support, they should:

• Make their own choices

• Speak for themselves

• Be involved in decisions

Support should empower, not take over.

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Empower People to Ask for Support

Encourage people to say when they need help.

For example:

• “Can you explain again?”

• “I need more time.”

• “Can you write that down?”

Empowerment builds:

• Confidence

• Independence

• Self-advocacy

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One-to-One Support

Many people prefer one-to-one communication.

This helps reduce:

• Anxiety

• Sensory overload

• Distractions

Quiet, calm environments improve understanding.

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Reduce Distractions

Communication works better when there is:

• Less noise

• Fewer people

• Calm surroundings

• Good lighting

Busy environments may increase stress.

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Speaking Clearly

Whether face-to-face or on the phone:

• Speak clearly

• Not too fast

• Not too quiet

• Not too loud

Check the person can hear and understand you.

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Talking to the Person First

Some people may come with:

• Family

• Carers

• Support workers

Always speak to the person first.

Not the supporter.

This shows:

• Respect

• Dignity

• Inclusion

Supporters can help if needed.

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Anxiety in Groups

Many people feel anxious when surrounded by:

• Large groups

• Strangers

• Busy environments

Support by offering:

• One-to-one time

• Quiet rooms

• Breaks

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Written Communication Support

Always ask the person what works best for them.

Do not assume.

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Easy Read Format Examples

Easy Read may include:

• Large print

• Pictures

• Symbols

• Bullet points

• Short sentences

• Step-by-step lists

• ABC or 123 formats

Example:

1. First

2. Next

3. Finish

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Person-Centred Communication

Person-centred means:

• Adapting to the person

• Respecting preferences

• Asking what works best

• Listening to feedback

There is no “one size fits all.”

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Key Communication Reminders

• Provide the right support

• Promote independence

• Empower self-advocacy

• Use one-to-one where possible

• Reduce distractions

• Speak clearly

• Talk to the person first

• Ask about Easy Read needs

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Why This Is Important

Sometimes people attend appointments with:

• Parents

• Family members

• Carers

• Support workers

For example:

• Doctor visits

• Assessments

• Meetings

• College reviews

Professionals may speak more to the supporter — but this is not always good practice.

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The Golden Rule

Always talk to the person first.

They are the patient, client, or learner.

This shows:

• Respect

• Dignity

• Inclusion

• Independence

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Common Mistake

A common mistake is when professionals speak only to the parent or carer.

Example:

Doctor talks to the parent instead of the person.

This can make the person feel:

• Ignored

• Invisible

• Disempowered

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Balanced Communication Approach

It is important to balance communication.

You should:

1. Speak to the person first

2. Use simple language

3. Give time to respond

Then involve the supporter if needed.

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When to Involve Parents or Carers

It is okay to speak to the supporter when:

• The person asks you to

• The person gives consent

• The person is struggling to communicate

• Clarification is needed

Supporters can help by:

• Explaining needs

• Rephrasing information

• Providing history

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Always Ask Permission

Before speaking to the supporter, ask the person.

Example:

“Is it okay if I ask your mum to help explain?”

This keeps the person in control.

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If the Person Is Struggling

If communication is very difficult:

• Slow down

• Use visuals

• Ask closed questions

• Involve the supporter gently

But still include the person.

Never exclude them.

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Respect & Inclusion

Even if someone needs high support:

• Talk to them

• Make eye contact

• Use their name

• Acknowledge responses

Small actions build dignity.

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Good Practice Example

Good communication looks like:

Doctor:
“Hi Sam, how are you feeling today?”

Then later:
“Is it okay if your dad adds anything?”

This keeps Sam at the centre.

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Key Training Message

• Talk to the person first

• Do not ignore supporters

• Balance both

• Ask consent

• Empower independence

• Provide support when needed