​At a glance

To work effectively, having a good rapport and communicating well is not enough. You need to back up what you say with action. What you do (and don’t do) and your ability to build trust, will determine how effective you are.

Trust is the belief that someone is good and honest and will not harm you, or that someone is safe and reliable.

Some strategies to build trust include:

  • being realistic about what you can deliver
  • doing what you say you will
  • avoiding over promising or being misleading.

Remember - actions speak louder than words!

Resources

Practical Tips for Workers - Overall strategies to improve communication
This age has some practical tips for developing genuine relationships. Note that this site is designed for complex needs, so it covers general principles and tips for coexisting conditions.
Type: Web page
Estimated reading time: 10 minutes
Produced by: Complex Needs Capable

Communicating with Mental Health Clients
This is a training video covering how to communicate with people with mental health issues in a range of situations.
Type: Video | Closed captions
Viewing time: 16.19
Produced by: BlueRidge AHEC

Utilise specialist communication skills to build strong relationships
The effectiveness of community service and disability work depends on the quality of the relationship between the client and the worker. This course is about communicating effectively. In order to access the training, you will need to set up an account.
Type: eLearning
Produced by: QCOSS Community Door

Current as at: Monday 20 January 2020
Contact page owner: Mental Health