Laser Lessons - Lesson

Understand why effective communication is important in the work setting

View the video opposite, which is part of the YouTube website. This is a short video about communicating effectively in a health and social care setting.Watch the video and make notes. Is there anything that you can relate to your setting? What can you learn from watching the video?

Table of Contents

Look at notices around the setting that are written for staff or individuals. Are the notices written in a friendly, respectful and non-confrontational way? Could they be re-worded to promote the same message but to portray a different and more respectful attitude towards others?
Write a list of things that you would need to tell a new individual at your setting. Think about the things they need to know for themselves and for their loved ones and carers. Don’t forget things like how you pass on letters or information. Think about things that will help them to feel confident about joining your setting: the safety procedures, what activities you might be doing that day. Don’t forget to introduce them to other key staff.
Take time to make yourself familiar with various cultures, unique needs, dietary requirements, and special needs for each individual you work with. Make a note of your findings and take some time to research them, using the internet, any books or leaflets at your setting or in the local library, the knowledge of your colleagues and, most importantly, the individual themselves.
Find a copy of the ‘Candidate Handbook for the Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care’, published by Heinemann, and read pages 1-3 from the handbook on communication at work. NB. You should be able to borrow this book from your local library or it may be available online as an electronic version. Laser Learning is not suggesting that this book is more suitable than others available to learners. Be sure to look at a variety of books.
Click the icon to visit this non-commercial website with various good quality articles about communication in the workplace.
This article from Skills You Need is about ‘Communicating in difficult situations’.

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