At Health Now, our Complex Care Service uses a model of trauma-informed care. But what is trauma-informed care and why is it linked with ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences)?
What are ACEs?
Adverse Childhood Experiences, or ACEs, are harmful events or experiences that can significantly impact a child’s development and well-being. These events can include abuse, neglect, violence, and exposure to substance abuse or mental health issues.
Recognising the profound effects of ACEs on individuals’ lives has led to a growing emphasis on trauma-informed care (TIC) within social care settings.
What is trauma-informed care?
Trauma-informed care is a holistic approach that recognises the prevalence of trauma in individuals’ lives and incorporates knowledge about the impact of trauma into all aspects of service delivery. It is grounded in the understanding that trauma can have lasting effects on individuals’ emotional, psychological, and physical health, and that services must be designed to promote healing and recovery.
Key principles of trauma-informed care include:
- Safety: Creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel protected and respected.
- Choice: Empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their care and treatment.
- Collaboration: Building partnerships with individuals and their families to develop personalised care plans.
- Trustworthiness: Establishing trust and building positive relationships with individuals.
- Empowerment: Supporting individuals in developing their coping skills and resilience.
The application of trauma-informed care in the context of ACEs involves:
- Screening for ACEs: Identifying individuals who have experienced ACEs through the use of screening tools and assessments.
- Understanding the impact of ACEs: Recognising the potential long-term consequences of ACEs on individuals’ physical and mental health, relationships, and overall well-being.
- Providing trauma-specific interventions: Implementing evidence-based interventions that address the unique needs of individuals who have experienced trauma.
- Creating a supportive environment: Fostering a safe and welcoming environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their experiences and accessing the support they need.
- Building resilience: Supporting individuals in developing coping skills and resilience to help them manage the effects of trauma.
Summary
By adopting a trauma-informed approach, social care providers, such as Health Now, can create a more supportive and effective environment for individuals who have experienced ACEs. This can lead to improved outcomes, such as reduced rates of mental health problems, substance abuse, and involvement in the criminal justice system.
It is important to note that trauma-informed care is not just about providing specialised interventions for individuals with ACEs. It is a fundamental shift in how we approach social care, recognising that trauma is a common experience and that all individuals can benefit from a supportive and understanding environment. By incorporating trauma-informed principles into all aspects of our service delivery, we can help to promote healing, resilience, and overall well-being.