Introduction to Communication in Health and Social Care (Adults and Children and Young People), Early Years and Childcare

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 1
Unit No:
T/602/6205
Credits:
2
Guided learning hours:
19 hours

Assessment Guidance

N/A

Aim

This unit considers different ways of communicating with individuals, the barriers that may have an impact on effective communication and how to overcome these barriers.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1

Know different methods of communication.

Additional details

There is a wide range of communication methods that a learner could consider. It may be helpful to cluster them under the key areas of communication i.e. speaking, listening, reading and writing. The tutor and learner can decide on the most relevant methods to meet their needs.

1) speaking - sign language, body language, social media, telephone/mobile, IT

2) listening - listening devices, IT

3) reading - books, magazines, electronic devices

4) writing - use of IT, formal documents, informational documents e.g. letters, notes

Given the likely client groups in health and social care settings, consideration should also be given to less traditional forms of communication, including use of pictures, symbols, electronic communicators, gestures and vocalising.

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Identify a range of communication methods.

2

Understand how to communicate with individuals.

Additional details

Being an effective communicator is essential when working with other people. Ways of identifying communication and language needs may include:

  • asking the person
  • accessing individual's records, if authorised to do so
  • speaking to family members or friends
  • observing the individual

The learner should be aware of the importance of both speaking and listening within communication.

Communication barriers and factors to overcome them may include:

  • sensory loss - aids, IT, quiet environment
  • language differences - be aware that words can have different meanings to different people
  • cultural differences - know about and respect cultural differences including non-verbal communication/body language
  • physical disability e.g. effects of a stroke, accident - use simple short sentences, speak clearly, using gestures or visual aids
  • learning disability - physical contact if appropriate, one-to-one conversations, use of assistive technology
  • illness e.g. dementia, infections that cause confusion - regularly repeating information, presenting information visually and in simplified terms

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

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

  • 2.2

    Identify a range of barriers to communication.

  • 2.3

    Identify factors that promote communication and overcome barriers.