Trauma Informed Practice training

Community workers, curates, clergy, caretakers and more, gathered from all across the diocese to increase our awareness of Trauma, and consider how we might implement our learning in the spaces and places where we welcome people. Many of the course attendees are volunteers in Places of Welcome, or in similar contexts, and really valued gaining a deeper understanding of the impact of trauma on the people we work with and seek to support. While fully acknowledging that dealing with trauma is best left to health professionals, it was helpful to think about how we can provide a safe space, where people can be welcomed, signposted, listened to, and supported, while waiting for or receiving professional help.

The second day of the course focused on trauma informed approaches, and how to effectively apply the principles of trauma-informed learning in community settings. We had helpful discussions on the importance of self-care and considered how we might maintain our own emotional well-being when working in roles that involve exposure to trauma.

Given the diverse demographic of many Places of Welcome, churches and community spaces, it was helpful to process how we might foster an environment where everyone feels safe, respected and valued. Many of the individuals we encounter may have experienced trauma, which can shape their behaviour, responses and needs. By incorporating trauma- informed principles, organisers and volunteers can better support participants and create a more welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

This course was a really helpful follow on from the MHFAider training we offered last year. Rachel Horne, our trainer from Greater Together Manchester covered a lot of information in a short space of time, and many of us left wanting to learn even more.