Difficult Conversations in Education, Health and Social Care: How to Talk about What Really Matters and What to Do When It All Goes Wrong

This accessible guide combines evidence-based research with practical experience to help develop effective communication skills for navigating difficult or challenging situations.

The book delves into what it means to be an effective and confident communicator, before addressing how to approach those often-avoided ’difficult conversations.’ Key features include:

• Strategies for tackling tough topics, from handling emotional outbursts to addressing both conscious and unconscious reactions
• Approaches for discussing sensitive issues like trauma, sexuality, gender, race, and serious concerns
• Engaging case studies, scenarios, activities, and top tips to support discussions
• Practical advice on how to enhance communication skills and prevent difficult conversations from escalating
• Exploring concepts and techniques that can be applied across various professions and in personal life

The authors emphasise the importance of applying the right skills, knowledge, and experience to transform a challenging conversation into an effective, solution-focused, and collaborative exchange. With innovative ideas for making tough discussions more manageable, this book is an invaluable resource for professionals in education, social services, healthcare, and similar fields.

Becky Edwards is a Senior Lecturer in Childhood Studies at the University of Chichester, UK, an award-winning children’s author and co-founder of the Parent and Carers Support Organisation (PACSO). In her roles as a primary school teacher, children’s centre manager and lecturer, Becky has extensive experience of supporting children, students and families from diverse backgrounds in many different situations

Chris Smethurst is Co-Director of the Institute of Education, Health, and Social Sciences at the University of Chichester, UK. Chris has a background in community work, youth work, residential childcare, and field social work, specializing in learning disabilities and mental health teams. Together with Becky, Chris co-developed the ＂From Adversity to University＂ project, which helps marginalized individuals engage with higher education.