The course aims to give an understanding of the physiological and psychological effects of trauma on children and adults. We will orientate the course towards the work of intermediaries and the experiences frequently encountered in this role. There will be discussion about vicarious trauma, which can occur.

This course is an introduction to working with trauma in the Justice System. It is aimed at a range of professionals but principally at Intermediaries. It will build an understanding of the neuroscience of trauma and how this can impact upon people. Drawing from an understanding of the physiology of trauma, this course will explore how Trauma Informed Practice (TIP) can be used effectively. We aim to offer practical suggestions on how to apply this knowledge and how to work more effectively with traumatised individuals. Likewise, we will be considering how to protect from the insidious effects of secondary trauma.

Course content:

Building on paricipants' knowledge about TIP, the course will: 

• Introduce key trauma theory, drawing on core texts (such as those by Judith Lewis Herman, Bessel van der Kolk, Stephen Porges and Bruce D. Perry)
• Examine the neuroscience of trauma and trauma's long-term impact
• Explore the impact of trauma on communication 
• Introduce key concepts:
  • dissociation
  • hypervigilance
  • window of tolerance
  • emotional regulation
  • secure base (attachment theory)
  • sensory integration-disintegration
• Use case studies from within the justice system to demonstrate the above concepts
• Consider how trauma may manifest within the justice system
• Highlight the importance of safety and creating a safe environment
• Explore techniques for managing trauma
• Introduce the notion of secondary/vicarious trauma and explore it in the context of the justice system using relevant evidence
• Explore self-care strategies to prevent and manage secondary trauma
• Consider the implications of working remotely with trauma
• Experiential activities will enable an understanding of the effects of trauma, using a variety of approaches to cater for different learning styles

Course aims/objectives:

Participants will:

1. Have an understanding of the different types of trauma and their impacts.
2. Appreciate the fundamental importance of safety for human beings.
3. Have an overview of human functioning in conditions of safety and threat. 
4. Understand dissociation as an essential human survival strategy.
5. Understand how complex trauma impacts upon long-term human functioning.
6. Understand how complex trauma specifically impacts upon communication.
7. Understand the concept of the window of tolerance and its relationship to emotional regulation.
8. Understand the concept of the secure base, attachment theory, attunement and emotional regulation, as well as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).
9. Understand the role of Registered Intermediaries in supporting emotional regulation to promote effective communication.
10. Develop an understanding of secondary/vicarious trauma. 
11. Appreciate the risks of working with traumatised individuals.
12. Develop an awareness of strategies to manage the impact of secondary trauma on selves. 
13. Learn different practical approaches to supporting traumatised individuals. 
14. Have an understanding of how visual material/props can assist when working with traumatised people.
15. ABEs with TIP knowledge/shame and self-blame. 

Course method:

The workshop is run in the form of a small group training. The presenters will persent information and will invite high levels of participation and sharing of knowledge and ideas.

The following materials are provided: 

• Powerpoint presentation
• Bibliography and further reading list
• Additional relevant resources