3.8 Language
‘Scotland must understand that ‘language creates realities’. Those with care-experience must hold and own the narrative of their stories and lives; simple, caring language must be used in the writing of care files.’
The language we use helps us to communicate our thoughts, feelings and ideas. Using language that is non-stigmatising and easily understood fosters an understanding and connection with the person you are communicating with.
Watch this video which explores the experiences of children and young people who have interacted with the Children’s Hearings System in Scotland [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)] . The video illustrates the importance of language and how saying and doing things differently can help to make a positive difference (Our Hearings Our Voice, 2024).
Each and Every Child explains how this can be done.
Each and every child should have what they need to feel safe, included and to thrive, now and in the future.
However, we know that stigma can impact on people with lived experience of care in all aspects of their lives. The wider public often do not always have a full understanding of all the different aspects of care experience and the care system, which can lead to assumptions about what’s happening.
These assumptions often are not accurate and are shaped by the way care experience and the care system is spoken about in media, culture and through our own work – the words that we use, and the ideas that we share.
Framing is the choices we make about how we tell stories: what we share and how we share them. It’s these choices that change how people think, feel and act. Each and Every Child exists to tell a different story about care experience and to support and guide everyone with a story to tell.
We draw on research from FrameWorks UK to share eight ways we can communicate about care experience and the care system that counter stigma and discrimination. These recommendations help build wider public understanding of care experience, and direct people to solutions that will create meaningful and sustained change. They are simple, easy to use, and can be adapted to different ways of sharing information.
If you would like to learn more, you can explore the full toolkit.
Activity 3: Positive relationship skills
In this activity, you will enhance your understanding of positive relationship skills which are essential for fostering trust, safety and connection, particularly for those with experiences of trauma, like Jemma.
By completing this activity, you've strengthened your understanding of positive relationship skills essential for fostering trust and safety, particularly for those who have experienced trauma.
You’ve identified the skills needed for a trauma-informed approach which not only nurtures a compassionate environment, but paves the way for meaningful, supportive relationships that can impact the journey toward healing.
3.7 Positive relationship skills