INSTUKOM: Studying communication with minority language speakers in institutions

Communication is central in sectors such as health care, care and rehabilitation, particularly for people living in institutions.

Nevertheless, residents and their relatives, who are minority language speakers, often face significant communication barriers in their interactions with employees of Norwegian institutions. This threatens not only their legal rights, but also the quality of the care and rehabilitation they receive.

The research project is based on qualitative research methods and is conducted in three modules:

1. A mapping of current research in the field 
2. A study of how minority language residents communicate with other residents and staff in institutions.
3. An exploration of how minority-language relatives communicate with staff in institutions.

We will shed light on current practice and on this basis discuss solutions that are feasible and applicable for residents, staff and relatives/visitors.

The findings and recommendations will contribute to better practice, understanding, communication and possibly changes in routines.