Language in fostering
Language is powerful and words matter. They underpin meaning, communicate attitudes, and reflect social relationships.
“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)
Some children and young people in care have expressed their unhappiness and discomfort with certain words that are used to describe them and their experiences. In this UK practice note, Paul Adams considers how language is used in relation to fostering.