Plain language and linguistic accessibility – training for social and health care, rescue services and the service sector
Professionals and teams in social and health care, rescue services and the service sector
For those who work with diverse client groups, explain instructions, make decisions and ensure understanding – even under pressure.
Clearer communication –better services
Practical tools for using plain language and accessible interaction: fewer misunderstandings, smoother encounters and an improved customer experience.
Tailored staff training
Delivered online, on site or in a hybrid format. The content is adapted to service situations, texts and professional roles – also using the organisation’s own materials.
When communication is clear, services work better: clients understand, feel understood and are able to act on instructions. We help make interaction accessible both face to face and in digital services.
What does plain language mean in practice?
Plain language means shaping messages so they are as easy to understand as possible. Word choice, structure, rhythm and examples all support the client’s situation. Linguistic accessibility is present both in spoken interaction and in written texts – especially in services where clients need instructions, decisions or guidance on next steps.
The training focuses on everyday service situations: how to ensure understanding, how to structure instructions, and how to make communication safe and equitable for all clients – even when a shared language or sufficient language skills cannot be assumed.
Why does it matter?
- Reduces misunderstandings and repeated “explanation loops”
- Improves client participation and sense of safety
- Clarifies instructions and the reasoning behind decisions
- Supports smooth workflows and helps manage professional workload
- Works in both face-to-face and digital services
Core content
Principles of plain language
Clear structure, core vocabulary, sentence rhythm, examples and repetition. How to distill the key message and eliminate unnecessary noise.
Ensuring understanding
Techniques for asking and checking, calming guidance, and reviewing decisions and next steps. Tools for challenging service situations.
Clear instructions and accessible content
Guidance for instructions, forms, message templates and digital service texts: how to make them understandable and equitable – even in busy situations.
The training can be delivered as a lecture, workshop or coaching process. The best results are achieved when we work with the organisation’s own examples: client instructions, decision texts, website content, onboarding materials or critical touchpoints along the service journey.
Typical process
- Initial discussion: objectives, target groups and service situations
- Current state analysis: examples of texts and interactions
- Training and practice: plain language in real-life situations
- Text and message revision: templates and “before–after” examples
- Follow-up: shared guidelines and support for implementation
Materials for everyday use – the Ydinasia resource bank
During the training, we use linguistic accessibility materials that can also be applied in onboarding and independent learning. If desired, we can help you build a model that embeds these materials into everyday practice (e.g. an onboarding pathway, a communication checklist or shared team practices).
Request a quote for plain language training
Briefly describe your sector (social and health care / rescue services / service sector), target group (e.g. customer-facing staff, communications, management), preferred delivery format (online / on site / hybrid) and what you would like to develop (interactions, instructions, digital content, onboarding).
We will propose a tailored solution that meets your needs.
Sales services: myyntipalvelut@humak.fi
Sikke Leinikki
Head of Business Services Helsingin kampus