“Trauma Informed Care”

‘Trauma-informed care’ is a principle that demands a ‘philosophical shift’ in our thinking, away from “what’s wrong with you?” to “what has happened to you?”

A trauma-informed approach to care acknowledges that all practitioners who work directly with members of the community in:

• Education

• Criminal Justice

• Health

• Housing

• Voluntary sector

• Addiction services

• Central Government

• Social services

All need to have a complete understanding of the full life situation — past and present — of those they work with, - in order to provide effective services with a clear focus on the CAUSES of suffering, rather than the (all-too-apparent) CONSEQUENCES.

Adopting trauma-informed practices directly improves engagement between practitioners and those they work with; an increased and purposeful empathetic dialogue; consistency and perseverance in working and practice, - as well as provider and staff wellbeing.  

They are also directly focussed on reducing avoidable costs and the use of unnecessary resources, by remaining centred on the ‘root’ of potential difficulties, - rather than on the myriad toxic outcomes that may evolve from complex trauma.   

Trauma-informed care seeks to:

• Recognise the full impact of trauma - and highlight appropriate paths for recovery;

• Recognise the signs and symptoms of trauma in the community, their families, and staff members.

• Integrate trauma informed practices into policies, procedures, and practices.

• Actively avoid re-traumatisation and vicarious trauma.