This month we will look at the six principles of Trauma Informed Practice in more detail, and how we can apply this strengths-based and person-centred approach in our everyday work.
Safety TI Practice recognises the importance of creating an environment where people feel physically and psychologically safe by establishing trust through respect, consistency, acceptance, and congruence.
Trustworthiness This can be achieved by having clear and transparent objectives, policies, and procedures; clear explanations and expectations; and by staff doing what they say they are going to do.
Choice This identifies the need for collaboration, co-production and shared decision making; listening to the needs of both staff and the people we support; and recognising that those who have experienced trauma may feel they lack autonomy and control over their lives.
Collaboration This considers the need for an organisational approach that asks staff and service users what they need, and proactively works to meet these needs. This also focuses on co-production and the active involvement of service users in service delivery.
Empowerment This recognises that those who have experienced trauma may feel powerless, isolated and have low self-worth. TI practice seeks to share the balance of power by listening, validating, and respecting people’s feelings and views, and by supporting decision making.
Cultural consideration Challenging stereotypes and bias and offering services and support that are responsive to the cultural needs and identity of the individual.
Find out more below.
Person-centred care: Prevention practice examples and research - SCIE
Strengths-based approaches | SCIE
SWU Blog: Intersectionality is a valuable tool for Social Work Practice | www.basw.co.uk
Working definition of trauma-informed practice - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
