The North West Language Charter- Language that works for our children and families

Children, young people and families told us that the way professionals speak has a huge impact on how safe, respected and included they feel. 

Language can build trust — or fear. 

It can invite families in — or push them away.

The Language Charter has been co-produced with children, parents and carers and aims to give the North West shared language that is:

• Clear
• Warm
• Human
• Respectful
• Easy to understand
• Shared across agencies

It removes any complicated language and makes sure everyone in the system is on the same page.

1. Explain anything technical in a way that’s easy to understand. Always give the simple version, and use pictures if needed
2. Talk about strengths as well as worries.“What’s going well” is always part of the conversation.
3. Be honest and consistent. We say what we know, what we don’t know, and what happens next.
4. Check understanding. “Does that make sense?” “Would you like it explained another way? ”Always okay to ask again.

1. 1.Use words that blame or shame.

We won’t use labels that make people feel like they’ve done something wrong. 

2. 2.Use confusing or complicated language. 

If a 10-year-old can’t understand it, say it differently

3. 3.Refer to people as paperwork or problems.

People are people — not files or case numbers.

4. 4.Speak about people without involving them.

No meetings where families are spoken about but not spoken with.

• Start every meeting with clear names, roles, and purpose.
• Use the Charter as a springboard in multi-agency meetings.
• Replace acronyms and complicated words instantly.
• Summarise actions at the end in a way that’s easy to understand
• Use people’s preferred names (and check what they are if you aren’t sure)
• Letters, emails, assessments, and plans must use clear language.
• Remove words such as “case” or “issue” which can push families away. 
• Add simple explanations and diagrams.
• Use boxes to easily explain anything complicated. 
• Every new staff member receives the Charter during their training when they start. 
• Managers model the Charter and challenge language that isn’t clear or kind.
• Include the Charter in supervision and reflection activities.
• Use clear language in policies, procedures and practice standards.
• Include Charter checks in audits and reviews.
• Add Charter prompts to systems, such as templates, feedback loops, or software pop-ups.
• Leaders model the Charter in how they speak and how they write. 
• No blaming, shaming, or confusing language. 
• Celebrate examples of great human communication.
• Apologise when they get it wrong quickly and learn from their mistakes.