Communications

Good communication can be the key to a good working relationship with everyone regardless of impairment. The sharing and understanding of any form of information and/or instruction not only saves time, but also a great deal of distress for all. This short guide aims to give you a few basic tips to help you whilst communicating with people who may have a sensory impairments.

Do's

• Position yourself so that the person can see/hear you more clearly
• Face your listener at all times
• Use appropriate facial expressions or voice tone when trying to convey a message
• Open your mouth and frame each syllable properly
• Take time, do not rush the patient
• Speak in a moderate rhythm
• Rephrase rather than keep repeating
• Keep a pen and paper handy in case you need to write anything down for the person
• Explain everything to the best of your ability, in a manner or method that the person understands
• Ensure that everything that has been "said" has been understood by both you and the person
• Only speak via the persons personal assistant, enabler or carer as a last resort
• Get a British Sign Language interpreter if required

Don'ts

• SHOUT!!
• Speak through clenched teeth or closed lips
• Gabble or drawl
• Turn your back whilst speaking
• Change the subject suddenly
• Have your back to a window or bright light
• Use slang words or expressions
• Speak with anything in or in front of your mouth
• Say "it doesn't matter", or "never mind" if not heard the first time
• Speak using exaggerated mouth movements
• Speak to someone else, whilst facing the hearing impaired person
• Say "Deaf and Dumb" as this can cause offence

For more details contact Warrington Disability Partnership on 01925 240064