Standard 6: Communication

Standard 6 of the Care Certificate deals with all forms of Communication.

It explores why effective communication in a health and social care setting and looks at meeting individual’s communication needs as well as reducing barriers to communication.

The importance of confidentiality is also discussed.

It comprises of 4 learning outcomes consisting of up to 4 assessment criteria.

• 6.1 Understand the importance of effective communication at work
  • 6.1a Describe the different ways that people communicate
  • 6.1b Describe how communication affects relationships at work
  • 6.1c Describe why it is important to observe and be receptive to an individual’s reactions when communicating with them
• 6.2 Understand how to meet the communication and language needs, wishes and preferences of individuals
  • 6.2a Describe how to establish an individual’s communication and language needs, wishes and preferences
  • 6.2b List a range of communication methods and styles that could help meet an individual’s communication needs, wishes and preferences
• 6.3 Understand how to promote effective communication
  • 6.3a List barriers to effective communication
  • 6.3b Describe ways to reduce barriers to effective communication
  • 6.3c Describe how to check whether they (the HCSW/ASCW) have been understood
  • 6.3d Describe where to find information and support or services, to help them communicate more effectively
• 6.4 Understand the principles and practices relating to confidentiality
  • 6.4a Describe what confidentiality means in relation to their role
  • 6.4b List any legislation and agreed ways of working to maintain confidentiality in day-to-day communication
  • 6.4c Describe situations where information, normally considered to be confidential, might need to be passed on
  • 6.4d Describe who they should ask for advice and support about confidentiality

NOTE: Many of these assessment criteria are the same or similar to the communication unit in the Level 2 Diploma in Care, so the links will direct to this section.