Improving Receptive Communication and Understanding in ABI Services
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Receptive communication difficulties affect an individual’s ability to understand spoken or written information following acquired brain injury. When services assume understanding that is not present, risk increases. Commissioners and inspectors expect ABI services to adapt how information is delivered to ensure comprehension.
This article focuses on improving receptive communication in ABI services. It should be read alongside Cognition, Behaviour & Executive Function Support and Quality, Safety & Governance.
What receptive communication difficulties look like
Individuals may misinterpret information, miss key details or appear to agree without understanding.
Risks associated with poor understanding
Misunderstanding increases safeguarding, medication and consent risks.
Commissioner and inspector expectations
Expectation 1: Confirmed understanding. Inspectors expect services to check comprehension.
Expectation 2: Accessible formats. Commissioners expect information to be adapted to need.
Operational example 1: Simplified information formats
An ABI provider used short sentences, plain language and visual aids.
Checking understanding effectively
Asking “do you understand?” is rarely sufficient.
Operational example 2: Teach-back techniques
Staff asked individuals to explain information back in their own words.
Supporting understanding over time
Understanding may fluctuate with fatigue and stress.
Operational example 3: Repetition and reinforcement
Key information was revisited across multiple interactions.
Evidencing receptive communication support
Providers should evidence:
- Accessible information design
- Confirmed understanding processes
- Reduced communication-related errors
Why receptive support underpins safety
Effective receptive communication is fundamental to lawful, person-centred care.
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