Trauma is defined as an event or series of events a person experiences that is physically and emotionally harmful or life threatening. Trauma can affect any one of us at any time. The negative impacts can be significant. Particularly for people already affected by inequalities and adverse childhood experiences.
Training
There is accessible training on trauma which can help anyone working in health and social care. Further information about training on trauma is available on TURAS Learn.
Insights to support change
See below our insights that may help you when undertaking change.
When we are engaging with people with lived and living experience in co-design and co-production of changes, they may have experienced trauma in the past. Involvement in the change process may bring up negative memories.
People who deliver services or who are working on supporting your change may also have experienced trauma which may be triggered.
Past experiences can:
- influence current behaviours
- recognise and reduce barriers created by the impact of trauma
- support people’s recovery
- reduce re-traumatisation
Relationships should be valued. Ensure space, time and skills to build meaningful and trusting relationships.
Being open, transparent and reflective during engagement and using language that is accessible to everyone, helps reduce stigma. It also demonstrates an understanding of the impact of trauma.