Children and young person centred communication is important because
It enables children and young people to ‘know and understand’ and to feel ‘heard and understood’.
It respects children and young people’s right to make choices and decisions about their care and body.
It enables children and young people to feel more in control, develop a sense of ownership of their health or condition, and increases treatment adherence.
It develops trust and cooperation, and reduces fear, anxiety and resistance.
It minimises conflict between children and young people, parents, and health and social care professionals.
It improves patient safety and earlier detection of problems, and can prevent healthcare professionals from missing vital information.
It encourages help-seeking behaviour, as poor communication can prevent a child or young person accessing health and social care.
Shared decision-making and person-centred care can improve health outcomes.