Course Profile: Engaging with Vulnerable Adults with Communication Difficulties (1 Day)
Human communication is challenging at the best of times. Engaging with people who have communication difficulties in ‘normal’ circumstances increases the challenges and in exceptional circumstances such as a Safeguarding Adults investigation can be very difficult indeed; yet successful communication may be critical to the potential outcome. This course aims to help learners understand the challenges for both parties and the importance of engagement on meaningful level.
The course is informed by ‘No Secrets’ and ‘Safeguarding Adults Framework’ (2005).
The course provides some knowledge for
NHS KSF: Core 1.4
CIS: 3
QCF: P1		 The course is designed for senior Support workers, Deputies and Managers in all Health & Social Care settings.
The course will assist the organisation to deliver CQC Outcome 7.
Learning outcomes

By the end of the course learners should understand:

• Why engagement is critical within an investigation
• The potential negative consequences of miscommunication or lack of communication
• For Vulnerable Adults, what might be the emotional impact of being part of an investigation?
• How the emotional responses might impact on the ability to effectively communicate?
• Other factors that might impede communication e.g. Poor concentration, Hallucinations, Confusion
• Preparation: Factors to consider incl. appropriate support, advocacy etc
• How to work with communication challenges:
  Environment, Time, Clarity of roles, Style, Advocacy, Aids to communication etc.
• Empathic Active Listening: The advantages, Shaped responses, Prejudicing the investigation
• The investigator-barriers to communication
     - How might the manner of the investigator get in the way?
     - How might our assumptions or judgments impede investigation?
     - How our listening skills (or lack of) may worsen the situation Etc
• Confidentiality
• Advocacy
• Legal, Guidance and Policy issues
Training methods utilised include Tutor presentations, PowerPoint, Large & small Group Work, Handouts, Role Play, Handouts, Chalk & Talk, Practice examples.