Bridging Communication Gaps: Guiding Connections with SSCY Families

Recognizing the diversity of clients at the SSCY Centre and the presence of numerous volunteers and research coordinators on site, the objective of this project was to create an infographic to guide new research assistants/coordinators, volunteers, and staff on person-centered research, recruitment, and communication. The main goal being to minimize discomfort, provide open dialogue, protect dignity, show respect, recognize autonomy, and create stronger communication connections between RCC staff/volunteers/researchers and children, youth and families attending SSCY. The creation of this infographic was led by a summer student with guidance from the family advisory council and RCC staff.

Published June 2, 2025

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kaitlyn completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Manitoba with a B.Sc. in Human Nutritional Sciences. She is pursuing a MSc in Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Manitoba in the fall. Kaitlyn was a Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba summer research student working with Dr. Kristy Wittmeier and Dr. Elizabeth Hammond last summer at the Specialized Services for Children and Youth Centre. Her project for the summer was to idenitfy themes and summarize the various perspectives of individuals and families living with disabilities on communication and terminology used by healthcare professionals in the literature, to improve comfort and care delivery and the participation of children with disabilities in research. She collaborated with experienced staff and families with lived experience in the disability community to create the resource to ensure the experiences and feelings of families and children with disabilities was hear and reflected.