Colmcille Coaching
Poileasaidh Cànain · Language Policy
Cha d’ dhùin dorus nach d’ fhosgail dorus. — No door closes without another opening.
This policy sets out how Colmcille Coaching approaches language in the coaching relationship — with respect for every client’s voice, clarity about how sessions are conducted, and openness to the full range of human expression.
1. Prìomh Phrionnsapal · Core Principle
Tha gach cànan luachmhor. — Every language has value.
At Colmcille Coaching, every client’s language is recognised as a meaningful part of who they are. Language shapes how we think, feel, and make sense of our experiences. Clients are therefore encouraged to use whatever language comes most naturally during the coaching process.
2. Cànan Obrach · Working Language of Coaching
Cleachdaidh sinn Beurla mar chànan obrach. — We use English as our working language.
Because I work with clients from many places, Standard English is the primary language of delivery for coaching sessions, written materials, and general communication. This ensures clarity and consistency across an international practice.
3. Gàidhlig agus Scots · Presence of Gàidhlig and Scots
’S e pàirt dhìom fhèin a th’ annta. — They are part of who I am.
Gàidhlig and Scots form part of my personal and cultural identity and may appear in coaching conversations, website content, worksheets and reflective materials, and publications and resources. Their inclusion reflects the holistic, geographically and culturally grounded nature of my coaching approach. It is not a requirement for clients to understand or use them.
4. Soilleireachadh · Clarification and Meaning-Making
Dè tha sin a’ ciallachadh dhutsa? — What does that mean for you?
If a client uses a word, phrase, or concept in any language that I do not understand, I will simply ask what it means for them — for example, “What does that mean for you?” or “How would you describe that in your own words?” This keeps the focus on the client’s meaning, not on linguistic accuracy or translation.
5. Innleachdan · Resourcefulness in Understanding
Obraichidh sinn còmhla. — We will work together.
Where clarification is needed, we will work together using whatever tools or strategies are available. This might include translation apps, online searches, paraphrasing or role-play, visualisation or metaphor, or consulting external resources with the client’s permission. The aim is always shared understanding, not perfect translation.
6. Meas agus Sàbhailteachd · Respect, Boundaries, and Psychological Safety
Cha tèid do bhreithneachadh. — You will not be judged.
Clients will never be judged for their level of English or their use of other languages. The coaching space is one of curiosity, respect, and safety. While all languages are welcome in expression, I may not be able to conduct full sessions in languages other than English. This boundary ensures that the coaching process remains effective and clear for both of us.
7. Rùn-dìomhair · Confidentiality and External Support
Mairidh do rùn-dìomhair sàbhailte. — Your confidentiality remains safe.
If external support — such as asking a colleague about a word or phrase — is ever needed, this will only be done with the client’s explicit permission and without sharing any personal or identifying details. Confidentiality remains paramount at all times.
Version 1.0 · May 2026 · Subject to periodic review
Colmcille Coaching · colmcillecoaching.co.scot
Gach turas a’ tòiseachadh le ceum singilte. — Every journey begins with a single step.