ASCERT’s Training Manager Colin Robinson and Training Officer Elena Brewer virtually attended Queens University’s research launch earlier this week.  The Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland had commissioned Queens to undertake research to provide recommendations for the advancement of Trauma Informed Approaches across Northern Ireland.

During the morning Colin and Elena heard from representatives from both Queens University and the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland discussing the study overview, key findings and recommendations.  Case studies demonstrating Trauma Informed Practice implementation were provided from Fane Street Primary School, Thorndale Parenting Service/Salvation Army, Belfast Health & Social Care Trust Inclusion Project and the Youth Justice Agency.

ASCERT’s training course – Understanding Trauma Informed Practice – comprises a 7 hour interactive session which can be delivered in person or online (Zoom or MS Teams) over a full day or two half days.

Groups of between 6 – 15 participants can be facilitated on the course which will enable them to identify core concepts of trauma informed practice and apply them to be more responsive to the needs of the client.

On completion of the course participants will be able to describe Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE’s) and other potential sources of trauma; Describe the prevalence of ACEs in Northern Ireland; Explain how exposure to ACEs and other sources of trauma can impact health outcomes across a persons lifespan; Describe the concept of trauma informed practice and characteristics of trauma informed organisations; Explain how individuals and families can be affected by trauma; Recognise potential signs of exposure to trauma/traumatic stress; Identify approaches for effectively working with people affected by trauma; Explain the risk of indirect trauma in professionals working with clients affected by trauma; Describe strategies for practitioner care and self care and identify sources of support.

To book or enquire about this course for your organisation, please contact Elena Brewer via email at elena@ascert.biz and for details on all ASCERT’s training courses, visit the Training section of our website at www.ascert.biz/training