Every individual has the right to communication as the Human Rights Act (1998) lists the freedom of expression as well as other rights relating to communication. As a support worker I have a moral obligation as well as adhering to the standards, codes of practice, guidelines, morals and law that govern my practice to ensure that communication needs are met.
If an individual’s communication needs are not met then all aspects of their daily life can be affected such as not being able to communicate you are well and get help. This could be more severe in the case of abuse whereby the individual can’t communicate effectively to alert others if they are being abused and can be vulnerable to abuse. The result could also put others in dangers for example if a person’s communication needs were not met and they discovered a fire they would not be able to report it quickly which would put others in danger.
It would also impact other rights such as those covered by the GSCC’s codes of practice which include; diversity, equality, control, dignity, effective communication, risks, safety and security. These would be infringed because the individual would not be able to effectively communication their opinions or views in relation to these rights.
1.2 Explain how own role and practice can impact on communication with an individual who has specific communication needs.
As a community support worker it is my role to ensure that I support and encourage individuals in everyday activities and promote their independence. My organisation also works in a user centred way whereby communication is key; so I must ensure the individual’s communication needs are