In introducing this briefing paper it is fitting to offer a reflective point on the development and application of a ‘Trauma Informed Approach’ (TIA) within the services and counseling rooms of Women and Girls Network. The following briefing paper brings together over 30 years’ experience of working with survivors of gendered violence. WGN has a unique ‘herstory’ in that our understanding of gendered violence as a traumatic experience has matured alongside the first connection that both sexual violence survivors and war veterans had similar experiences of P.T.S.D.

It is useful for readers to note that this is not a ‘trauma informed toolkit’. Numerous toolkits are available for practitioners (See Reference List) which provide information on how to assess, evaluate, plan and implement ways in which to become trauma informed.

Our intention within this briefing paper is not to replicate such kits but to offer our unique application of trauma informed philosophy and principles that we endeavor to permeate within all connections and interactions we have with the women and girls who access our services.

Our offering within this briefing paper is an illustration of an organization that from its inception has rooted within it a T.I.A. due to its origin as a ‘trauma specific service’. (See definition in section 5).

We offer, an overview of a trauma informed model that we have evaluated as good practice through the direct implementation with women and girls who in many instances experienced sustainable recovery from gender based violence.
Our approach combines the application of knowledge and understanding of trauma manifestations and adaptations to support the healing and recovery of individuals within a feminist strength based and recovery oriented practice framework.

READ THE FULL BRIEFING HERE

---

This briefing is created by Women and Girls Network.

It is produced by funding from London Councils for the Ascent Support Services to Organisations project. 

About Ascent

Ascent is a partnership project undertaken by the London Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Consortium, delivering a range of services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence, under six themes, funded by London Councils. The second tier support project aims to address the long term sustainability needs of organisations providing services to those affected by sexual and domestic violence. The project seeks to improve the quality of such services across London by providing a range of training and support. 

Women’s Resource Centre is the lead partner in the Support Services Strand where we work together with 5 partner organisations:

Rights of Women

Respect

Women and Girls Network

Against Violence and Abuse (AVA)

Imkaan

Find out more about the Ascent project here.