Trauma Informed Practice is a way of working that supports professionals from a range of disciplines in delivering care to individuals who have experienced psychological trauma.  It recognises that trauma survivors have experienced extremely abnormal situations, which can include various types of abuse.  It is based on five core principals (safety, trustworthiness, choice, peer support, and empowerment, as well as taking account of cultural and gender issues). The approach aims to avoid re-traumatisation, and to create a safe space for survivors.

This is how principles of Trauma Informed Practice are used within United in Solace and Grace

Safety

Recognising the impact of trauma and working to avoid practices that could trigger painful memories, and adjusting our worship space and our liturgy accordingly

Trustworthiness

Building trust and being transparent in our policies and practices, being open about our worship and liaising with survivors, supporters and professionals.  This includes safeguarding.

Peer Support

Supporting those involved in United in Solace and Grace, liaising with our peer colleagues in the deanery and diocese, including the diocesan safeguarding leads, building relationships with survivors' organisations and charities.  Working across denominations.

Collaboration and mutuality

We aim to introduce United in Solace and Grace to other churches, including those of different traditions and denominations, working with them to build their links, and sharing skills and expertise.  We hope to work with the survivors in our own church communities where possible to develop the services.

Empowerment

We are building links with survivors groups, and survivors, and consulting on the content of United in Solace and Grace services, and the way we develop our worship and worship spaces – where possible we include survivors in the decision making for the services.  We aim to give survivors a voice in the church. 

(please note we do not aim to water down  our usual liturgy and worship practices, but aim to find ways for these to be as trauma informed as possible)

Culture, Historical and Gender Issues

United in Solace and Grace was formed in response to cultural and historical issues within the Church of England - we are passionate about doing something positive to ensure as far as we can that these issues are not repeated.

We aim to become a voice of positivity in a difficult world.