Communicating with people who have a learning disability
Communication is all about giving, sending and sharing information, however it isn't just about talking - it's also about listening.
Making communication work
When you're communicating with someone with a
learning disability
A learning disability is to do with the way someone's brain works. It makes it harder for someone to learn, understand or do things.
, think about your tone of voice and your body language, as well as the words you use.
How to be a good communicator
To communicate well with people with a learning disability you need to:
- use
accessible
Accessible means something is easy for people to use or join in with. For example: Accessible writing means the writing is easy to read and understand.
language - avoid jargon or long words that might be hard to understand.
- be prepared to use different communication tools
- follow the lead of the person you're communicating with
- go at the pace of the person you're communicating with, check you have understood and be creative.
Hear from Amy
Amy is a Digital Assistant at Mencap. In her blog she talks about how she likes people to communicate with her.
What is Makaton?
Makaton is a language programme that uses signs, symbols and speech; giving a person different options when communicating.
We've worked with The Makaton Charity on some useful information about Makaton and how it is used.
Remember everybody is unique
Take the time to ask the person you're communicating with what works best for them:
In person: Many people with a learning disability prefer face to face and one to one communication.
In writing: Use bigger text and bullet points, and to keep writing at a minimum. Too much colour can make reading harder for someone as well.
On the phone: Speak slowly and clearly, using easy to understand words.
Tips for good communication
- Find a good place to communicate in - somewhere without distraction. If you are talking to a large group be aware that some people may find this difficult.
- Ask open questions; questions that don't have a simple yes or no answer.
- Check with the person that you understand what they are saying e.g. "the TV isn't working? Is that right?"
- If the person wants to take you to show you something, go with them.
- Watch the person; they may tell you things by their body language and facial expressions.
- Learn from
experience
Experience is when you have learned or tried something before.
- you will need to be more observant and don't feel awkward about asking parents or carers for their help. - Try drawing - even if your drawing isn't great, it might still be helpful.
- Take you time, don't rush communication.
- Use gestures and facial expressions. If you're asking if someone is happy or unhappy, make your facial expression unhappy to reinforce what you're saying.
- Be aware that some people find it easier to use real objects to communicate, but photos and pictures can really help too.
Remember, all communication is meaningful, but you may need to work harder to understand.
Communication resources and help
Many people with a learning disability can use or recognise some signs. Signalong and Makaton are both Sign Supported English systems. They are based on British Sign Language (BSL), but are used to support the spoken word.
- Visit the Signalong website or the Makaton website to find out more.
- Visit the British Deaf Association website to find out more about BSL.
- Talking Mats are a communication system that uses symbols and other images.
- Widgit produce software symbols to help with communication and accessibility.
The Learning Disability Helpline
Our free helpline service offers advice and support for people with a learning disability, and their families and carers.