Communication Support Principles

Principle 5

Give people the opportunity to communicate to the best of their abilities.

Adapt the environment

• identify where and how people like to meet
• choose a quiet venue with minimum distractions
• lay out the room so people can see you and each other
• have tables for people to put papers on
• have clear signage

Audio quote: Lindsay 

Adapt the timing

• send out information in advance
• consider a pre-meeting to help participants prepare
• schedule meeting times to suit participants
• ensure the meeting does not go on too long - some people can only concentrate and communicate for short periods at a time
• have regular rest breaks
• allow plenty of time for people to:
  
• • understand what is being said
  • read and understand any written information you circulate
  • get their message across

Audio quote: Pat and Margaret

Audio quote: James

Adapt the methods of communication

• different people prefer different methods of communication
• what form of communication are you going to use?
  
• • face to face?
  • telephone?
  • letter?
  • email? 

Ask yourself:

"If I had difficulty understanding or expressing myself, how would I respond?"

Encourage the use of support from a carer or support worker if this is required. Let the person choose who should provide this support. Budget for it.

Adopt a positive communication style

• use a positive and encouraging manner
• don't show impatience or put pressure on people
• avoid hogging the conversation - take no more turns at talking than the other person

Audio quote: Claire

Adapt the budget