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News from NSPCC Learning


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

Why language matters: using ‘non-accidental head injury’ and not ‘shaken baby syndrome’

Type: Why language matters blog

Exploring the history, impact and implications for practice around the term ‘shaken baby syndrome’ and the alternatives professionals can use.

Sept 22 2023

Why language matters: what is meant by ‘early help’

Type: Why language matters blog

Explores the use of the terms ‘early help’ and ‘early intervention’ in England and discusses the impact of conflating the two terms on the provision of support.

Aug 22 2023