The Lexicon for Social Care is an initiative by HIQA’s Chief Inspector of Social Service. The Lexicon provides a list of commonly-used words relevant to social care, along with a definition. The use of standardised language is important for clarity and consistency and all providers of social care are encouraged to use the Lexicon in their communications with HIQA. Below are links to useful documents as well as a search function for the Lexicon.

If you wish to comment or leave feedback on the Lexicon for Social Care then please click here or simply email socialcarelexicon@hiqa.ie

  • Guidance for providers on submitting notifications

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  • Lexicon for Social Care (PDF)

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  • Infographic about the Lexicon

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  • Academic slides on Lexicon for Social Care

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Lexicon catalogue

Displaying 349 - 360 of 411 results.
Term Description

Skin integrity

The skin being a sound and complete structure in unimpaired condition.

Sleepover staff

When employees remain in the residential care facility overnight and are permitted to sleep.

Sling

A strap, piece of cloth, or ropes for supporting, lifting, or carrying.

Social care

The provision of care, protection, psychosocial support and advocacy in partnership with individuals and groups who experience marginalisation, disadvantage or special needs.

Social care worker

A registered professional who plans and provides professional care and support to individuals and groups of all ages who experience marginalisation, disadvantage or special needs.

Social needs

The need for a sense of connection, intimacy, trust, and friendship. .

Social role valorisation

A dynamic set of ideas useful for making positive change in the lives of people disadvantaged because of their status in society.

Social support

To provide assisstance or comfort to others to help them manage psycholgocial, social or similar stressors.

Social worker

A registered professional whose job is to help people in a particular area who have social disadvantages or personal problems.

Socialising

The activity of mixing socially with others.

Alternative term(s) not to be used : Socialisation

Special care unit

A facility for children with very high support needs aged between 11 and 17 years of age which is intended to be a short-term, stabilising, safe and secure therapeutic environment. It is a premises, or a part of premises, comprising secure residential accommodation in which a child, in respect of whom a special care order or an interim special care order has been made, is detained for the purpose of the provision to that child of special care and includes accommodation and facilities required for the provision of special care.

Speech and language therapist (SALT)

Professionals that enable people with communication disorders and swallowing disorders to achieve their maximum potential.