Why language matters: NSPCC guides

Why language matters: how the label ‘older boyfriend’ can mask child sexual exploitation

Discusses the problems with the term ‘older boyfriend’ and prompts professionals to recognise the links to grooming and child sexual exploitation.

Blog exploring the risks around labelling an allegation as ‘malicious’ before properly assessing the situation. 

This blog looks at why using the term "domestic abuse" can help us to consider the wider experiences of children and families beyond physical violence.

Parental domestic abuse, parental substance misuse and parental mental health problems – the toxic trio? This post explores the issues around the term ‘toxic trio’, the complexities around its use, and what professionals might consider using instead.

How reframing attention-seeking behaviour as attention needing can prompt professionals to consider children’s unmet needs.

This blog post looks at the significant impact of using the term 'child sexual abuse material' instead of ‘child pornography’ which diminishes the seriousness of the crime. It is aimed at anyone working in the wider child protection sphere (in any capacity), anyone whose work involves children and young people, as well as those working directly with children and young people. 

How we label those who need our services can be a barrier to engagement. This blog post explores the issues around the phrase “hard to reach” and discusses how services can increase accessibility.

This blog post explores the words professionals and children use when talking about taking, sending or receiving naked or semi-naked images or videos.

This 'why language matters' blog post explores how key men in a child’s life can be overlooked by professionals. It discusses how the phrase 'hidden men' is unhelpful and these men should rather be 'unseen'.

The language we use when talking about harmful sexual behaviour can impact professionals' perceptions and how children see themselves. This "why language matters" blog discusses how changing words can help improve outcomes. 

Digging deeper than 'did not attend': the importance of considering why a child was not brought to an appointment

Type: Why language matters blog

The first in a series of blogs on improving safeguarding practice with words, this article looks at how recording children’s missed health care appointments as "was not brought" instead of "did not attend" can have a significant impact on the wellbeing of children.