Introduction:
By Andrea Perkins from our Open Clinic sexual health service.
Following the publication of Inclusion’s Trauma Informed Practice Guidance, our services are committed to embed the principles. This article focuses on why trauma-informed training is so valuable in all services.
Andrea’s story:
Along with my Open Clinic and Midlands Partnership University Foundation Trust (MPFT) colleagues, I attended the launch of the trauma-informed care training, facilitated by Chloe Candlin and Dr. Sarah Stacey at Inclusion.
The training was face-to-face, but moving forward will be a blend of online and face-to-face. I found the face-to-face training to be invaluable, being able to interact more easily with colleagues is something I have missed since the pandemic. I appreciate to increase access for MPFT colleagues, there has to be a blended learning approach.
“I believe the trauma-informed care training is valuable for several key reasons:”
- Improved patient outcomes: By understanding the impact of trauma on individuals, healthcare providers can create a safe and supportive environment that fosters trust, reduces re-traumatisation, and improves engagement and healing.
- Enhanced communication skills: Trauma-informed care teaches strategies for communicating more effectively with individuals who have experienced trauma, emphasising empathy, active listening, and sensitivity.
- Cultural competence and sensitivity: It helps providers better understand the diverse ways in which trauma manifests across different populations, including those affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, systemic oppression, and childhood abuse.
- Prevention of re-traumatisation: Trainees learn how to identify signs of trauma, and adjust their practices to avoid unintentionally triggering painful memories or responses, ensuring a safer environment for patients.
- Promotes staff well-being: It fosters a workplace culture of care and support, helping staff to more easily manage secondary trauma and burnout, therefore encouraging self-care and resilience.
- Legal and ethical responsibility: Providers who implement trauma-informed practices are better equipped to meet ethical and legal standards of care, particularly when working with vulnerable populations.
- Holistic approach: Trauma-informed care promotes a more holistic approach to patient care, recognising the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and mental health, which leads to more comprehensive and effective treatment.
Overall, attending trauma-informed care training laid the foundation to provide compassionate and effective care for individuals affected by trauma. I would highly recommend this training for all MPFT colleagues.