Inclusive language is a form of communication that avoids using words, expressions, or assumptions that stereotype, demean or exclude people.

For example, gendered language is commonly understood as a language that is biased towards a particular sex or social gender. In English, this would include using gender-specific terms referring to professions or people, such as businessman or fireman.

Language is powerful and can have varying effects; we acknowledge not everyone understands the words or phrases that are considered hurtful or offensive and that changing personal habits requires patience and empathy.

https://www.ethnicity-facts-figures.service.gov.uk/style-guide/writing-about-ethnicity

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/inclusive-communication/inclusive-language-words-to-use-and-avoid-when-writing-about-disability

https://www.ethnicity-facts-figures.service.gov.uk/

https://ageing-better.org.uk/blogs/negative-language-ageism

https://www.manchester.gov.uk/info/200091/life_over_50/8396/standards_for_age-friendly_communications

 

  • Avoid acronyms
  • When speaking about groups of people in general, use inclusive terms such as multi-  cultural
  • When speaking about individual groups, use specific terms that the group identifies with

    Avoid language that:

  • Reinforce stereotypes
  • Reinforce derogatory labels
  • Exclude certain groups of people through assumptions, e.g. assuming white population is the norm
  • Emphasise certain ethnic minority groups (Asian and black) and exclude others (mixed, other and white ethnic minority groups) or groups people together, for example, the term BAME
  • Patronise or trivialise certain groups of people
  • Cause discomfort or offence