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News from NSPCC Learning


Why language matters: why professionals need to talk about child sexual abuse

Type: Why language matters blog

By understanding how to talk about sexual abuse, professionals can address concerns earlier, work effectively with children and families and bring words to the silence around child sexual abuse.

Apr 22 2025

Why language matters: how using the term ‘disguised compliance’ can be problematic

Type: Why language matters blog

The phrase ‘disguised compliance’ can be misleading, unhelpful and blaming and can undermine working relationships with caregivers.

Mar 07 2025

Why language matters: putting the child first – why we say children who have disabilities rather than disabled children

Type: Why language matters blog

Using child-first or child-led language reminds us of the importance of seeing children who have disabilities as children first, instead of focusing on their disabilities.

Nov 14 2024

Why language matters: rethinking the language of suicide

Type: Why language matters blog

It's crucial that professionals are alert to the different ways in which children and young people might express suicidal thoughts or feelings. They can then work to engage and support children at risk.

Sept 12 2024

Why language matters: how using terms like ‘recruited’ and ‘working’ minimise children’s experiences of criminal exploitation

Type: Why language matters blog

By using clear language when talking about child criminal exploitation, professionals working with a child can build an accurate picture of their experience and identify support that meets their needs.

Jun 24 2024

Why language matters: how referring to online ‘friends’ can mask safeguarding concerns

Type: Why language matters blog

It’s essential for professionals to remain curious when children refer to people they meet online as their ‘friends'.

Apr 04 2024

Why language matters: why we should avoid the term ‘victim’ when talking about children who have experienced abuse

Type: Why language matters blog

The term 'victim' comes with implications and assumptions that can affect the way we perceive and safeguard children, and the way children perceive themselves.

Jan 26 2024

Why language matters: why we shouldn’t talk about the ‘risky behaviour’ of young people experiencing abuse

Type: Why language matters blog

A professional focus on risk-taking behaviour can imply that the young person has a level of responsibility for abuse and exploitation – when in fact abuse is never a young person’s fault.

Nov 24 2023