5 Ways to Build Trust With the People You Support

In care and support roles, trust is everything. Whether you're supporting someone with learning disabilities, an older adult, or someone living with a sensory impairment, building trust is the foundation for providing compassionate, person-centred care.

Trust encourages openness, promotes independence, and ultimately enhances the quality of life for those you care for.

Here are five practical ways to build — and maintain — that trust.

1. Be Consistent and Reliable

Why it matters: Routine and consistency provide stability, especially for people who may already experience unpredictability in their daily lives.

How to do it:

• Stick to agreed routines and appointments whenever possible.

• Arrive on time and do what you say you'll do.

• Keep your tone and approach calm and steady — especially during stressful moments.

Even small things like remembering someone’s preferred routine or meal can make a big difference in showing reliability and care.

2. Communicate Clearly and Respectfully

Why it matters:Trust grows when people feel heard, understood, and respected — regardless of their communication style.

How to do it:

• Use clear, simple language and check for understanding.

• Use alternative communication methods if needed, such as visual aids, Makaton, or gestures.

• Listen actively: maintain eye contact (when appropriate), nod, and respond thoughtfully.

• Avoid speaking over or about someone instead of to them.

Making time for communication, even when you're busy, shows that the person's voice and views matter.

3. Respect Personal Boundaries and Autonomy

Why it matters: Everyone deserves to feel in control of their own life. Respecting boundaries reinforces dignity and trust.

How to do it:

• Ask before providing personal care or entering someone’s personal space.

• Support people in making their own choices, even if their decision differs from your suggestion.

• Understand that "no" is a valid answer.

Empowering people to make their own decisions, from what to wear to how they spend their time, builds mutual respect.

4. Be Honest and Transparent

Why it matters: Even in difficult situations, honesty creates a foundation of mutual respect and integrity.

How to do it:

• Be upfront if plans need to change or if something goes wrong.

• Share information in a way the person can understand, without withholding or sugar-coating important details.

• If you don’t know something, say so — and follow up with the correct information when you can.

Being transparent shows that you're dependable and respectful of their right to know what's happening.

5. Show Empathy and Patience

Why it matters: Trust grows through emotional connection. Empathy helps you understand and respond to a person’s experiences with compassion.

How to do it:

• Take time to understand how someone feels — especially if they’re frustrated or anxious.

• Respond with kindness rather than frustration, even when situations are challenging.

• Celebrate small achievements, and be present during difficult times.

Just showing up with patience and empathy each day reinforces that you're someone they can count on.

Building Trust Takes Time — But It’s Worth It

Every individual is unique, and trust is not something that happens overnight. But with care, consistency, and a genuine commitment to person-centred support, you can foster meaningful relationships that empower the people you support to live full, confident lives.

Whether you’re a carer, a support worker, or a family member, trust is the bridge that turns support into connection.