Trauma-informed care in child/family welfare services

Date

2016

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Australian Institute of Family Studies

Abstract

This paper aims to define and clarify what trauma-informed service delivery means in the context of delivering child/family welfare services in Australia. Exposure to traumatic life events such as child abuse, neglect and domestic violence is a driver of service need. Policies and service providers must respond appropriately to people who are dealing with trauma and its effects in order to ensure best outcomes for individuals and families using these services. In addition to evidence-based programs or clinical interventions that are specific to addressing trauma symptoms, such as trauma-focused cognitive behaviour therapy, there is a need for broader organisational- or service-level systems of care that respond to the needs of clients with a lived experience of trauma that go beyond a clinical response. Some of the challenges identified in implementing and embedding trauma-informed care across services and systems are discussed. (Author Abstract)

Description

Keywords

child abuse, treatment, therapy, International Resources, Australia

Citation

Wall, L., Higgins, D. J., & Hunter, C. (2016). Trauma-informed care in child/family welfare services. Australian Institute of Family Studies. 19 pp.

DOI