Experiences from a language development intervention in nursing homes from the perspective of first-line managers, language advocates and care staff: a qualitative study

Abstract Background An increase in foreign-born workers in nursing homes (NHs) has challenged first-line managers to implement language initiatives for their staff. Evidence regarding foreign-born care workers’ experiences of language support initiatives is still scarce. Thus, the aim of the study was to explore and describe the experiences of a language development intervention “Talk about Work” from the perspective of first-line managers (FLMs), language advocates and participating care staff. Methods An explorative qualitative study using on-going evaluation methods following the intervention “Talk about Work.” The intervention consisted of eight workshops intended to strengthen language and professional competence within health and social care. Semi-structured focus-group interviews were conducted with FLMs (3), language advocates (5), and caring staff including language assistants (20) at NHs. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis to identify three main categories and seven subcategories. Results The educational material was suitable for caring staff, and FLMs found it beneficial also for future education plans. They could repeat topics, introduce new ones, and continue the intervention at different paces. Addressing Swedish language skills at work was perceived as sensitive, and the initiative made it easier to speak about language competences. Challenges for FLMs included finding staff with the right competences to lead the initiative. Language advocates asked for closer collaboration with FLMs. Conclusion The intervention “Talk about Work” was considered appropriate for and was well received by all participating groups in the study. Moreover, FLMs could use the material for continued language initiatives at NHs. To improve language and communication skills among caring staff in multi-cultural contexts, there is a need to find staff with the right competences to lead language development initiatives as well as to provide resources to implement them.