Sch_31_1.1

SHC 31 (1.1) The Different Reasons People Communicate Good communication in the workplace promotes positive relationships with children, young people, parents, carers, staff and professionals. In the caring role it is highly likely to encounter other professionals such as doctors, nurses, social workers and therapists. It is essential care staff are equipped to communicate with these professionals to ensure all individuals have the correct information regarding the child concerned. The staff should communicate with the children and young people to enable them to speak freely about their emotions, wants and needs. Children and young people may need to express their feelings through speech, play or sign either on a one-to-one basis or as part of a group discussion. Parents, carers and family members may need to discuss various support options with a member of staff so it is imperative that the carer can communicate their needs to the support available to them such as social workers. Promote Relationships and to Offer Support People working with children/young people need to build positive relationships with parents/carers & families so they can gain their trust and give them the confidence to accept any support and advice offered to them. Regular contact with parents/carers strengthens the trust and helps to establish good relationships between the staff, children/young people, their families and other professionals. Maintain Relationships Each child needs a member of staff to act as their ‘key person’. This enables the staff member to fully understand the child’s needs through regular communication with the child/young person and their family. A trusting relationship can be built giving all parties confidence in their role within the setting and the child’s life. Exchange Information It is important to communicate information correctly with others such as passing information to other professionals. It is vital that the information being exchanged is accurate and up to date. For example, if a child/young person needs medical assistance, the doctor/nurse needs the correct information to effectively assist the child/young person thus promoting a speedy recovery. Before exchanging information, it is wise to remember the Data Protection Act and therefore only give information regarding the child/young person where it is necessary and safe to do so. Negotiate and Liaise with Others Managers of child care settings will be responsible for updating policies and procedures relating to the setting. They may need to communicate with others such as parents/carers, social services, staff members and other child care provisions. It is important that managers are able to effectively communicate with others so they can promote and sustain good working relationships. It will also encourage a safe, healthy and enjoyable setting for the children/young people and the staff. Express Needs and Feelings Everyone who comes into the child care setting will have certain needs and feelings that are individual to them. It may be a parent/carer requires one-to–one care for their child, or a member of staff may have personal problems. The manager/supervisor will need to be able to communicate appropriately to meet each individual’s needs. Staff should encourage children/young people to communicate their needs and feelings. This could be done through discussion, play, pictures or sign language. Everyone has the right to express their needs and feeling’s so it is imperative that all staff know how to communicate effectively and diplomatically.