5.2 Getting the communication right
The next activity asks you to consider good communication between families and support workers, when the person has profound and multiple or severe learning disabilities.
Activity _unit4.5.2 Activity 5 Ask the family
Watch this video of people with profound or severe learning disabilities taking part in performing arts.

Transcript: Video 5
Now imagine you are one of the drama workers.
- Write down four questions you would ask a family carer about the person you are working with.
Answer
Questions you could have asked include:
- What does s/he enjoy doing?
- What does s/he like to eat and drink?
- Does s/he have any particular medical problems?
- Is there anyone in the group s/he particularly likes to be with?
- Does s/he have any special talents to build on?
- Write down two ways to share with families what their relative has been doing in the drama class.
Answer
Methods for sharing their experience with their family might include:
- A written diary, maybe one where the family member can respond.
- Using an iPad or mobile phone to take photos and share them using social media, email or text. This could also invite response from the carer.
Maintaining positive communication between families and support staff can be time consuming for everyone, but getting it right can have huge benefits.