The Difference Between Plain Language and Easy Read

Plain Language vs. Easy Read: Making Information Accessible for NDIS Participants

As an NDIS advocate for DisabilityInsights, I often hear questions about making information accessible. Two terms that frequently come up are "Plain Language" and "Easy Read." While both aim to improve understanding, they cater to different audiences and use distinct techniques. Understanding the difference is crucial for ensuring NDIS Participants can access and comprehend the information they need to make informed decisions about their Plans and supports. See our complete what-is-easy-read-and-why-it-matters-for-organisations guide

Let's break down the key differences.

Plain Language: Clarity for the General Reader

Think of Plain Language as clear, straightforward communication designed for a broad audience. It aims to make information easily understandable for individuals with a reading level around Year 8 or above. It’s about using clear and concise language, avoiding jargon, and structuring information logically.

Key characteristics of Plain Language include:

• Simple vocabulary: Using everyday words instead of complex terminology.
• Short sentences and paragraphs: Avoiding long, convoluted sentences that can confuse the reader.
• Active voice: Writing in the active voice (e.g., "We will contact you") rather than the passive voice (e.g., "You will be contacted by us"). This makes it clearer who is performing the action.
• Logical organization: Presenting information in a logical order, with the most important details first. Think about the "inverted pyramid" style of journalism, where the most crucial information is at the beginning.
• Clear headings and subheadings: Making it easy to scan the document and find specific information.
• Visual aids: Incorporating charts, graphs, and images to supplement the text and illustrate key points.

Plain Language is suitable for most NDIS Participants who can generally understand written text but benefit from clearer and more concise communication. Think of it as good communication practice for everyone!

Easy Read: Accessibility for Those with Significant Reading Difficulties

Easy Read takes accessibility a step further. It's specifically designed for people who have significant difficulty understanding written information. This includes, but isn’t limited to:

• People with learning disabilities (like dyslexia).
• People from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who are new to English.
• Older adults experiencing cognitive decline, attention challenges, or memory issues (such as dementia).
• Neurodivergent individuals who process information differently.

Easy Read employs a highly structured and simplified approach to ensure accessibility.

Key characteristics of Easy Read include:

• Very short sentences: Sentences are typically limited to one key piece of information.
• Simple vocabulary: Using the simplest possible words and avoiding jargon at all costs.
• High contrast images: Images are used to illustrate every key point. These aren't just decorative; they're integral to understanding. The images must be carefully chosen and appropriately represent the text.
• Lots of white space: Avoiding crowded pages and providing ample space around text and images. This reduces visual clutter and makes it easier to focus.
• Active voice: Essential for clarity.
• Logical order: Presenting information in a clear and sequential manner.
• Limited content: Easy Read documents are intentionally concise, typically no more than 15-20 pages. This focuses on essential information and avoids overwhelming the reader.
• Often designed for supported reading: Easy Read materials are often used with a support person (a Support Worker, family member, or advocate) who can help the individual understand the information.

Key NDIS Considerations

When considering Plain Language and Easy Read within the NDIS context, think about the following:

• Participant Choice and Control: The NDIS is founded on choice and control. Participants need accessible information to make informed decisions about their Plans, supports, and providers.
• Plan Implementation: Clear and accessible Plan information is crucial for effective Plan implementation. Participants need to understand what funding they have, what supports they can access, and how to connect with providers.
• Provider Communication: NDIS providers should use Plain Language or Easy Read when communicating with Participants about services, agreements, and rights.
• NDIS Processes: The NDIS itself is responsible for ensuring that all its information and processes are accessible to Participants. This includes application forms, review processes, and appeals.
• Capacity Building: Access to information is a form of capacity building. It empowers Participants to understand their rights, advocate for their needs, and participate fully in their communities.
• Reasonable Adjustments: The NDIS is obligated to make reasonable adjustments to ensure accessibility for all Participants. This may include providing information in Plain Language or Easy Read.

Practical Steps for Creating Accessible Information

Here are some practical steps you can take to create more accessible information for NDIS Participants:

1. Identify your audience: Who are you trying to reach? What are their specific needs and challenges?
2. Use Plain Language principles: Even if you're not creating an Easy Read document, apply Plain Language principles to improve clarity and understanding.
3. Consider Easy Read for individuals with significant reading difficulties: If you know your audience includes people with learning disabilities or other challenges, consider creating an Easy Read version of your document.
4. Test your materials: Ask members of your target audience to review your materials and provide feedback. Are they easy to understand? Are the images helpful?
5. Use online tools: There are many online tools that can help you assess the readability of your text and identify areas for improvement.
6. Consult with accessibility experts: If you're unsure how to make your information accessible, consult with accessibility experts who can provide guidance and support.
7. Remember the importance of images: In Easy Read, images are not optional. They are essential for conveying meaning.
8. Partner with organizations: Disability advocacy organizations may have experience in translating documents to easy read, or have established contacts.

Conclusion

Plain Language and Easy Read are valuable tools for promoting accessibility and inclusion within the NDIS. By understanding the differences between these two approaches, you can create information that is tailored to the specific needs of your audience. Remember that accessibility is not just about compliance; it's about empowering NDIS Participants to exercise their choice and control and participate fully in their lives. By prioritizing clear and accessible communication, we can create a more inclusive and equitable NDIS for everyone.