Council must look to take approach that is informed by trauma to help

ADVERSITY and trauma can deeply affect individuals, families, groups and communities, resulting in the lessening of life chances and loss of the vital contributions from everyone that we need to thrive as a city. Across Glasgow, we need to consider the development of trauma-informed services, systems and workforces.

Evidence of the full impact of trauma has been emerging now for several decades, and it has established beyond doubt that its effects can be wide-ranging, substantial, long-lasting and costly.

Whilst trauma is a word we can often associate with war, a violent attack, rape, abuse or near-death experiences, the reality is there are a range of other less obvious experiences that can be traumatic and that have the potential to seriously disrupt our lives.

There are things like dealing with a serious illness in yourself or a family member, the death of someone close, the break-up of a significant relationship, or even losing a job or leaving a community that’s very important to you can be traumatic.

It is increasingly recognised that many people who are at risk of or are experiencing long-term homelessness have been exposed to trauma. However, service systems are not always equipped with the necessary tools or the right responses to help people who have a history of trauma. Often this lack of consideration or understanding of how central the experience of trauma can be can prevent homeless services from being effective.

Trauma often happens during homelessness, for example by being a victim or witness of an attack, assault or any other violent event. People can also be re-traumatised by services that leave them feeling powerless and controlled.

Everyone can recover from adversity and trauma with the right support and a focus on strengths and capabilities. Recovery is based on the empowerment of the survivor of trauma and the creation of new connections. This recovery can only take place within the context of relationships, it cannot occur in isolation. Establishment of trust is the first stage of recovery of trauma. We all have an important role in creating an environment where people who are homeless can establish trust and where relationships are prioritised. This provides the best opportunity for recovery for someone who has experienced compound or complex trauma.

There is an ongoing shift taking place to provide long-term solutions, with permanent housing and support around the individual’s needs. Traumarelated support should be part of any solution to ending homelessness.

Our council services require to continue to work in ways to reduce barriers and prevent further harm for those who have experienced psychological trauma or adversity at any stage in their lives.

Supporting people who have experienced trauma and who often have behaviours that challenge the systems of care and support is a difficult job. It has to be recognised that staff need support in doing this.

A trauma-informed approach to services can be effective without increased cost as this requires a change in the way of working. Confronting the impacts of trauma can improve health outcomes for all of our communities.