“Scotland must understand that ‘language creates realities.’ Those with care experience must hold and own the narrative of their stories and lives; simple, caring language must be used in the writing of care files.” (The Promise, Page 69)

 In August 2021, a working group was set up to explore how we could meet the commitment of The Promise to improve the language that we use. Together, with the help of people with lived experience of care of all ages from “Crafty Foxes”, “Mad Middles” and “TNT-Today Not Tomorrow” we have prepared a language guide. This guide includes language that needs to be eradicated, and suggestions of alternative more appropriate language.

In completing this work, we were guided by participation principles. These principles are:

• Adopt a rights-based approach.
• Create and support opportunities for engagement, participation, and involvement.
• Ensure views and opinions are valued and respected.
• Enable staff to support engagement, participation, and involvement.

We are pleased to note that these principles were fully utilised in creating this language guide.

Here is a sample of the language that needs to change. This is not a one size fits all approach and language must be tailored to the needs of the people we serve.