New guidance on trauma-informed practice within schools

The UK government have this month published guidance on the working definition of trauma-informed practice. Whilst this has been published by the Office for Health Improvement & Disparities, it has resonance with approaches that can support pupils within school and college settings. It is acknowledged within the document that the evidence base for the use of trauma-informed practice in different settings and sectors is being developed and so this is an initial working definition. The document outlines the definition of trauma and entreats all organisations to consider ‘What does this person need?’ rather than ‘What is wrong with this person?’.

It identifies the 6 key principles of trauma-informed practice being:

• Safety
• Trust
• Choice
• Collaboration
• Empowerment
• Cultural consideration

There are links to supporting guidance including a toolkit published by the Scottish government.