Ways to communicate with someone with a learning disability

• Be patient and allow time: avoid rushing the conversation and give the person plenty of time to process information and respond.
• Use clear and simple language: speak slowly and clearly, using simple sentences and simple language. Avoid jargon and difficult words.
• Ask open-ended questions focus on one topic at a time, and encourage the person to express themselves by asking questions that need more than a yes or no answer.
• Use non-verbal communication: pay attention to their body language, facial expressions, and gestures. You could use visual aids like pictures, symbols, or ‘talking mats’ to help the person to understand.

It’s helpful for you to know the person’s preferred language before the conversation.

If their preferred language is different to yours, it may be helpful to include someone who can translate into their first or preferred language. They may be able to express themselves better in their first language.

If someone can’t communicate verbally, they may be able to:

• communicate through Makaton or other sign languages
• use their own methods of non-verbal communication, such as pointing, shaking their head (to say yes or no), facial expressions, or body language
• use symbols to convey their thoughts
• express their feelings through actions or responses.

Remember, your role is to find effective ways to communicate. Sometimes, actions or responses are the only way people feel they can express themselves.

If you’re supporting someone who uses non-verbal methods, you may need to pay more attention to the views and thoughts of people who know them well.

There may be people who have known the person for many years, and their insights will usually be very useful. Sometimes these people are called a ‘circle of support’.

You may also need to consider the person’s capacity. This means their ability to understand information and make decisions about their life.

Considering mental capacity is an important way to make sure the person’s voice is heard.

Assume capacity

Always start with the assumption that the person has capacity unless proven otherwise. This respects their autonomy and rights.

Look for previous assessments

Before you make any decisions, look for any previous assessments that may have been done. This can provide valuable insights into the person’s abilities and needs.

Make the most of their mental capacity

Think about how you can make the most of any capacity the person does have, no matter how little that may be. This may involve using simpler language, visual aids, or other ways to communicate.

Legal framework

You can find out more about the Mental Capacity Act and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) on our on our website.