Understanding Trauma-Informed Care

Shifting from "What is wrong with you?" to "What happened to you?"

Trauma is a multifaceted response to distressing experiences. These can be prolonged events, such as child abuse or neglect, or one-off incidents, such as witnessing a fatal accident or a natural disaster.

● Physical/Sexual Abuse

● Domestic Violence

● Medical Trauma

● Bullying & Online Harassment

● Refugee & Displacement

● Neglect & Loss

The Impact of Trauma

Trauma affects everyone differently. A child's response depends on their age, genetic factors, previously learnt coping mechanisms, and the support network available to them.

It is not the event itself that defines trauma, but the individual's perception of it.

What is Trauma-Informed Care?

TIC is an approach that acknowledges the pervasive impact of trauma and integrates this understanding into all aspects of support. It aims to create environments that promote healing and resilience while strictly avoiding re-traumatisation.

The 10 Core Principles of TIC

1 Physical & Emotional Safety

Ensuring the environment is secure and the child feels protected from emotional harm.

2 Trust & Transparency

Building relationships based on open and honest communication.

3 Peer Support

Leveraging shared experiences to enhance the healing process.

4 Collaboration

Shared decision-making that respects the child's autonomy.

5 Empowerment & Choice

Supporting children to make informed decisions about their own care.

6 Cultural Consideration

Moving past bias to offer inclusive, culturally sensitive care.

7 Understanding Effects

Recognising that "behaviour is communication" of past trauma.

8 Resilience & Recovery

Focusing on growth and the belief in positive change.

9 Avoiding Re-Traumatisation

Being mindful of triggers that could re-activate past traumatic memories.

10 Integrated Care

Coordinating with therapists, teachers, and doctors for holistic support.

The Healing Process

TIC can decrease symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression by addressing the root cause of distress rather than just the behaviour.

Get Started

Implementing TIC is an ongoing process that requires dedicated training and empathy.

Thrive LDN Training NCTSN Resources Gov.uk Guidance

Healing Through Understanding

By adopting a trauma-informed approach, we stop looking at "bad behaviour" and start looking at an "injured child." This perspective is what allows us to foster genuine resilience and lasting recovery.

Acknowledge • Support • Heal

What is Trauma-Informed Care? | Embracing a Healing Approach