People whose first language is not English: learning from case reviews
Summary of risk factors and learning for improved practice around people whose first language is not English
Case reviews show that language barriers can sometimes prevent professionals from effectively assessing, supporting and protecting families. Good communication is key to relationships between professionals and service users. A lack of a common language presents a significant barrier to building trust.
The learning from these reviews highlights that efforts should always be made to ascertain the first language of service users, and suitable measures be put in place to make sure their views can be expressed.
Browse our full series of learning from case reviews briefings
Our series of thematic briefings highlight the learning from case reviews conducted when a child dies, or is seriously harmed, as a result of abuse or neglect. Each briefing focuses on a different topic or learning for specific sectors, pulling together key risk factors and practice recommendations.
More about case reviews
We work with local safeguarding partners to ensure that learning from case reviews can be accessed and shared at a local, regional and national level.