Communicating with disabled young people

Illustration of a white disabled young person using a power wheelchair and communication device, in conversation with a staff member who is wearing a headscarf and is typing on a laptop, balance on their knees

Effective communication can create a better experience for the disabled young people you support.

When you allow disabled young people to engage meaningfully in decisions about their supports, you empower them to make sure their needs are met and concerns addressed.

Effective communication builds trust and respect, and supports disabled young people to learn to express their needs and make decisions.

Ultimately, good communication helps both disabled young people and workers.

Photo of a disabled young person looking at the camera

Disabled young people share communication tips for NDIS service providers and workers

Check out this video of disabled young people sharing what effective communication looks like to them.

How communication can differ for disabled young people

Young people communicate in many ways. When an issue arises, some may prefer to meet in person to discuss the problem, while others may prefer email.

Don’t assume everyone with the same condition communicates the same way. For instance, one person with cerebral palsy may use a communication device, while another may speak verbally.

No matter how young people communicate, it’s important to give them time to speak up and share their concerns or ideas.

Illustration of a white young person sitting on a couch talking to a staff member. There's a service dog asleep next to them.

No matter how young people communicate, it’s important to give them time to speak up and share their concerns or ideas.

Remember to ask the young person directly about their access needs and how they prefer to communicate and receive information.

For example, a Deaf young person may need an Auslan interpreter booked for a meeting or a young person with vision impairment may need documents sent in accessible formats.