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News from NSPCC Learning


Why language matters: how the label ‘older boyfriend’ can mask child sexual exploitation

Type: Why language matters blog

Discusses the problems with the term ‘older boyfriend’ and prompts professionals to recognise the links to grooming and child sexual exploitation.

Jun 20 2023

Why language matters: why you should avoid labelling allegations as ‘malicious’

Type: Why language matters blog

Blog exploring the risks around labelling an allegation as malicious before properly assessing the situation. 

May 23 2023

Why language matters: domestic abuse is broader than domestic violence

Type: Why language matters blog

This blog looks at why using the term "domestic abuse" can help us to consider the wider experiences of children and families beyond physical violence.

May 02 2023

Why language matters: how ‘toxic trio’ is unhelpful and inaccurate

Type: Why language matters blog

Parental domestic abuse, parental substance misuse and parental mental health problems – the toxic trio? This post explores the issues around the term ‘toxic trio’, the complexities around its use, and what professionals might consider using instead.

Mar 27 2023

Why language matters: in need of attention, not ‘attention seeking’

Type: Why language matters blog

How reframing attention-seeking behaviour as attention needing can prompt professionals to consider children’s unmet needs.

Feb 24 2023

Why language matters: why we should never use ‘child pornography’ and always say child sexual abuse material

Type: Why language matters blog

This blog post looks at the significant impact of using the term 'child sexual abuse material' instead of ‘child pornography’ which diminishes the seriousness of the crime. It is aimed at anyone working in the wider child protection sphere (in any capacity), anyone whose work involves children and young people, as well as those working directly with children and young people. 

Jan 30 2023

Why language matters: reframing responsibility for accessing services

Type: Why language matters blog

How we label those who need our services can be a barrier to engagement. This blog post explores the issues around the phrase “hard to reach” and discusses how services can increase accessibility.

Dec 05 2022

Why language matters: ‘Sexting’ or ‘sharing nudes’?

Type: Why language matters blog

This blog post explores the words professionals and children use when talking about taking, sending or receiving naked or semi-naked images or videos.

Oct 31 2022

Why language matters: 'hidden' in plain sight

Type: Why language matters blog

This 'why language matters' blog post explores how key men in a child’s life can be overlooked by professionals. It discusses how the phrase 'hidden men' is unhelpful and these men should rather be 'unseen'.

Sept 26 2022

Harmful sexual behaviour: labelling actions, not children

Type: Why language matters blog

The language we use when talking about harmful sexual behaviour can impact professionals' perceptions and how children see themselves. This "why language matters" blog discusses how changing words can help improve outcomes. 

Aug 22 2022