Words can heal

Language is a powerful, convoluted and complex thing that impacts every moment for every person, deeply affecting our past, present and future.

Our kupu or words reflect our beliefs and the way we view the world and the people in it. We are often unaware of the impact that the words we choose have on those around us. The way we speak to and about people provides insight into what we are really thinking and what we value.

This resource provides guidance to people on how to use language to uplift, validate, and tautoko people. The resource covers:

• things to consider
• conveying respect
• samples of respectful and mana-enhancing language
• when someone has ended their life
• when writing people's notes
• language for whānau
• language for Māori.