Language and terms

Appropriate use of language is important when working with people with disabilities. Language has less to do with political correctness and more about challenging negative stereotypes and incorrect assumptions.

Using terms like 'a person with...' is known as using people-first language, and is often preferred to communicate appropriately and respectfully with and about a person with a disability. However, preferences can vary and there are also people who feel their disability is an inseparable part of who they are and that the phrase 'disabled person' shows how integral their disability is to their identity and life experience.

The term ‘learning disability’ is also often used in a general way that can be unhelpful as it includes conditions like Dyslexia or Asperger’s syndrome where intellectual ability is not affected or maybe exceeds the general average, but may affect social skills and the ability to communicate effectively.

If you are unsure, ask the person or people you are working with what language and terminology they would prefer you to use.

While there is no all-purpose way to talk about disability, there are some common words or phrases that are unhelpful and should be avoided which are listed below along with some suggested alternatives.