Unit 310

1.1 Describe a range of conditions that may affect the way in which an
individual communicates 4 examples
Cerebral palsy: An individual with cerebral palsy may have difficulties using the
correct words when speaking or may not be able to speak at all, or they may
have difficulty using gestures when communicating with others as they may not
be able to control their body’s movements.

Hearing impairment: An individual with a hearing impairment may find it difficult

to participate in conversations with a group of people. Their impairment may
mean that the individual finds it difficult to hear what each person is saying,
particularly if more than one person is speaking at the same time or if someone
is not facing the individual when they are speaking.

Visual impairment: An individual with a visual impairment may find it difficult to

participate in conversations with a group of people. Their impairment may mean
that the individual finds it difficult to see and therefore understand messages
from non-verbal communication such as body language and gestures

Deaf-blindness: An individual who is both deaf and blind may find it difficult to
understand and interact with others and may therefore use their own form of
communication. Their condition may make the individual feel different or
disconnected from the world and others around them

Speech and language impairments: An individual with a speech and language

impairment may experience difficulties in making themselves understood when
communicating with others. An individual who has a stutter, for example, may
find it difficult to express the words they want to say and may also repeat vocal
sounds. This may make the individual reluctant to communicate with others,
particularly those they don’t know very well, as they may feel inadequate or
embarrassed about their impairment.

Learning difficulties: An individual who has mild learning difficulties may not be
able to communicate effectively verbally or have the social skills required to
interact with others. People with severe learning difficulties may prefer to use
non-verbal and pictorial information to communicate their needs and wants

Lewi body dementia - is a variant of Alzheimer's disease, diffuse Lewy body

disease and cortical Lewy body disease. A person with any type of dementia can
have problems with language. This is because dementia can damage the parts of
the brain that control language.

1.2 Evaluate how own behaviour impacts on communication with an

individual who has specific communication needs please look at comparing
By observing an individual’s communication cues (non-verbal signal used with
or without speech to indicate the individual’s thoughts and feelings) and exercising
effective listening, I will be able to determine if the individual has understood the
communication.
As a carer it is my role and responsibility to support individuals to express
themselves. The way in which I can do this is by assessing their needs, accessing
information regarding their communication needs, providing the appropriate support,
aids or equipment, encouraging and motivating communication, working with others
and by monitoring the effectiveness of that support.
Without the appropriate support the individual would be unable to express their
needs or how they are feeling which can lead to both emotional and physical
difficulties. By fully supporting individuals with specific communication needs I am
able to support their rights.

1.3 analyse features of the environment that may help or hinder

communication
It is difficult and frustrating to communicate effectively when there is background
noise, therefore arranging the environment to aid communication is a very important
step to achieving effective communication with individuals. As a carer I should
arrange the individual’s environment to facilitate effective communication and
promote understanding. This can be done by ensuring privacy and going into a quiet
room. Some factors that can hinder good communication are:
❖ Poor lighting, individuals with poor sight are unable to see me
❖ Background noise from the TV, radio, other individuals
❖ Obstacles between me as a care worker and the individual eg furniture
❖ Insufficient distance between you and the individual, leading to me
encroaching on their personal space.

1.4 Explain reasons why an individual may use a form of communication

that is not based on a formal language system
An individual may use a form of communication that is not based on a formal
language system because they might not have been taught the right way or not at
all, might have found it hard so made their own way of communicating up. A person
with a communication disability usually needs more time to communicate.
As a carer it is my role and responsibility to support individuals to express
themselves. The way in which I can do this is by assessing their needs, accessing
information regarding their communication needs, providing the appropriate support,
aids or equipment, encouraging and motivating communication, working with others
and by monitoring the effectiveness of that support.
● Sensory disabilities
● Hearing loss
● Sight loss
● Learning disabilities
● Down’s syndrome
● Autism
● Physical disabilities
● Cerebral palsy
● Mental health problems
● Dementia or Other mental health problems
Communication methods and aids to support individuals to communicate:
 ❖ British sign language (BSL)
❖ Picture exchange communication systems (PECS)
❖ Talking microwaves
❖ Hearing aids
❖ Interpreter
❖ Translator
❖ Advocate
❖ An individual might have born and raised in time when formal language was
not widely spoken or used
❖ An individual might have born in a custom where formal language was not
used for communication
❖ An individual might not have enough education to communicate in formal
language
❖ An individual might have a profession where colloquial language was used to
communicate
❖ An individual might have born in different country where English was not their
first language or mother tongue
❖ An individual may have been feeling homely or friendly environment where
they do not consider communicating in formal language

1.5 Describe a range of communication methods and aids to support

individuals to communicate please remember to describe
A range of communication methods and aids that support individuals to
communicate include sign language, body language, interpreters, hearing aids,
hearing loops, speech aids, minicom, writing, drawing, pictures, objects, symbols, etc.

Other examples of communication methods and aids that can be used to support
individuals to communicate are:
● Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS): PECS is used by individuals
with an autism spectrum disorder to communicate with others using pictures. For
example, pictures can be exchanged by individuals for items they would like such as
a book or something to eat as well as to answer questions such as ‘What do you
want to wear today?’ These pictures can also be presented in the form of a
communication book or board that is personal to the individual and can be used
solely with them. PECS encourages individuals who have difficulties communicating
with others to approach others to initiate communications.
● Language Acquisition through Motor Planning(LAMP) Words for Life: A language
system for individuals who use non-verbal communication to communicate more
independently by pressing buttons on a speech-generating device that generates a
range of words and sentences.
● Talking Mats: These are an application used by individuals with dementia who
have difficulties with their verbal communication to enable them to communicate
using a combination of pictures and symbols with text. For example, the individual
could be given options of different activities available and the individual could then
choose the ones they would like to participate in as well as those that they wouldn’t.
Cue cards or picture cards could be used instead where technology equipment, i.e.
tablets or PCs, is not available.
● Objects of reference: these are used by individuals who may find it difficult to
understand spoken words or photographs. Objects of reference are items that
represent to the individual an item, a person, an activity and/or a place. So, you may
use different objects of reference for the same item for two different individuals, for
example a plate can mean lunchtime to one individual while
Technology-based communication aids
 Hearing aids may benefit people born with a hearing impairment or
those whose hearing has deteriorated but who still retain some residual
hearing. Hearing aids don't completely restore hearing but can help to
make the sounds you need to hear louder.
 Cochlear Implants, a surgically implanted hearing device, may be of
benefit to some people. These are usually only suitable for people who
have a profound hearing loss and for whom hearing aids are not
effective.
 Smartphones can be used for many things, of course, including keeping
in touch, looking for information and finding your way around. Some
smartphones have increased amplification, hearing aid compatibility,
magnification software and braille displays.
 Social media has meant that individuals and communities that were
previously isolated can link up, form friendships and join a community.
 Braille keyboards, voice synthesisers and enlarged text enable people
who are visually impaired to read from a screen and use their computers
to the full.
 A wide range of computer programmes have been developed to help
everyone, no matter how complex your disabilities, to learn, make
choices and follow your interests.
Interpreters can act as a translator between you and the person or people you
are communicating with. Types of interpreters include:
 British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters: many interpreters can adapt
their skills to visual frame signing, hands-on signing and Sign
Supported English (SSE).
 Deafblind Manual interpreters.
 Speech-to-text reporters and palantypists: who listen to what is being
said and type the words on to a keyboard. This can then be relayed
either to a screen or an electronic braille reader.

1.6 Describe the potential effects on an individual of having unmet

communication needs
Unmet communication needs means that the individual is being deprived of their
basic human rights. They will not be able to voice their concerns or opinions. The
individual may develop mental health problems and may become depressed,
frustrated, angry and isolated. This will also have an effect on their relationship with
family and friends.
At times an individual may be unable to communicate because, for example, the
communication aid that they use is not working, because the person communicating
with them does not understand what they are trying to say or because the individual
does not understand what is being communicated to them.
Potential effects on an individual of having unmet communication needs:
● The individual may feel devalued – being able to communicate is a basic human
right and not being able to fulfil that right may leave the individual feeling worthless
and unworthy.
● The individual may feel angry/frustrated – having unmet communication needs
may mean that the individual is unable to communicate and interact with others; a
basic human need that if not fulfilled may make the individual become angry and
frustrated that they are unable to express their wants and needs.
● The individual may become depressed – having unmet communication needs
may result in the individual becoming depressed and, over time, withdrawing from
social interactions and contact with other people. This in turn could lead to the
individual becoming isolated and more depressed.
● The individual may lose their independence – having unmet communication
needs may result in the individual being unable to express their wants and needs in
relation to, for example, how they would like to live their life, what they would like to
do on a day-to-day basis and the choices and decisions they would like to make.
This may result in others making choices and decisions on the individual’s behalf
and over time the individual may become increasingly dependent on others and less
confident in their own abilities

2.3 Explain how and when to access information and support about
identifying and addressing specific communication needs

It is important to take action as soon it has been identified that an individual has
specific communication needs. I should establish what the needs are. Talk to the
individual, their family, friends or others who may support the individual to find out
how to meet identified needs. Information can be found from relevant support
groups, social services or other professionals with experience in a specific area of
communication. The individual's GP can also make a referral to a consultant
specialising in the relevant field.
When working with individuals and others to identify and address an
individual’s specific communication needs there may be occasions when you
have to access additional information and support. For example, this may be
because you want to clarify how to use a communication aid with an individual
or because you are having difficulties understanding what an individual is
communicating. Being able to access information and support in a timely
manner and acting on it will help you with providing high-quality support
to the individual.
If you need to access information about how to identify and address
individuals’ specific communication needs then you will find it useful to, in the
first instance, access your employer’s agreed ways of working as these will
detail the process you should follow as well as the occasions when you may
need to do so and how to do so. You may also be able to access additional
information about an individual’s specific communication needs from, for
example, their care plan or support plan and other associated records such as
their communication profile if they have one or records of any reviews and/or
support meetings they have had. These records can be a useful source of
information as they may contain more detailed information about individuals’
specific communication needs and the support they require. As these records
are personal to every individual and contain confidential information you will
need to obtain permission to do so.
If you are looking to access more general information, for example in relation
to the communication aids available for individuals who have a specific
condition or disability, you may find it useful to access the internet and
conduct
some research using relevant journals, reports and books. When accessing
the internet, it is important to use official websites and sources of information
to ensure you are obtaining information that is accurate, current and reflects
best practice.

5.1 Identify specialist services relating to communication technology and

aids

There is a range of communication technology aids available, including devices

known as Voice Output Communication Aids (VOCA) and Augmentative and
Alternative Communication (AAC). VOCA is dedicated to communication and may
not have any computer functions. AAC devices are either symbol or text based.
There are also communication software that can be added to a computer, mobile
phone or PDA to enable a person to type what they want to say and play it back so
others can hear what was typed.
Individuals that use communication technology and aids may require you to
provide them with support. For example, this may be in relation to you
supporting them to operate the communication technology and aids and may
include switching them on and off safely, knowing how to charge the aid,
understanding how the technology works as well as how the technology
and aids may benefit the individual. The support that individuals may need in
order to use communication technology and aids may not only be required for
when they first start using communication technology or aids but it may also
be needed at different stages; for example, if the communication technology or
aid stops working or develops a fault or if the individual’s needs change, i.e.
the communication technology/aid may no longer be suitable. You may feel
that you can provide this or that you can find out where to get the information
the individual requires.
Example: Telecare (Personal alarms, security systems ) can provide to support
to a wide range of people, including: Older people, People who live alone,
People with physical disabilities, People with learning disabilities, People with
long term care needs, People with long term health conditions, People with
dementia
Personal alarms and security systems (telecare) are devices that call for help if
you, or someone you know, falls or has a problem at home.

 They range from basic alarms to intercom systems that allow family
members to see who's knocking at your door.
 For example, they can be triggered if:
 you fall over or out of bed
 you have a fit
 you wander off or get lost
 the room is too hot or too cold
Basic alarms: These are small devices you set off to get help. They don't go off by
themselves like the more expensive systems.
They can usually: make a loud noise, send a signal to a carer or family member's
pager or phone
They can be: carried or worn around your wrist or your neck as a pendant,a button or
pull cord in your home you use if you need help
These alarms are cheap, but you have to rely on someone being close by to help.

5.2 Describe types of support that an individual may need in order to use
communication technology and aids

The device/equipment should be personalised to meet the individual's need and set
up correctly. The individual and others supporting them should receive training on
how to use the device. The individual should be supported to read and understand
the instructions and to follow any health and safety advice on how to use the device
correctly.

5.3 Explain the importance of ensuring that communication equipment is

correctly set up and working properly

It is important to ensure that the equipment is set up correctly and working properly
otherwise it would be a waste of time and money as the individual's communication
needs would still not be met. There could also be health and safety issues if the
equipment is not set up or used correctly.

6.2 Contribute to evaluating the effectiveness of agreed methods of

communication and support provided

The agreed methods of communication and support are only effective for as long as
the individuals communication skills remain the same. If their skills change then so
do their support needs. As a carer I will be expected to recognise and report on
changes to the individual’s communication skills

6.3 Work with the individual and others to identify ways to support the
continued development of communication
It is important that everyone involved in the care of the individual works as part of a
team to establish the best support for that person. When changes occur it is
important that the correct help and support is obtained immediately so that the
individual does not feel frustrated or isolated by being unable to communicate
effectively. Significant changes in an individual’s ability to communicate should be
referred to the speech therapist or GP involved in the individual’s care for
professional investigation and monitoring.