Collaboration

In SAMHSA’s (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach, it is stated that ‘healing happens in relationships and in the meaningful sharing of power and decision-making.’ In care services there are inevitably power imbalances between those providing care, and those receiving care.

Commitments

To help redress this, the patrons of this Concordat will acknowledge where power imbalances exist, and through the application of these commitments will ensure that the experience of care is collaborative:

Commitment 1

We will prioritise the use of person-centred planning using an established format/template.

Commitment 2

Care plans will be created and updated by supported individuals and those involved in their care and support and owned by the individual. Plans will be focused on the persons needs and aspirations and be reflective of the principles of trauma informed care.

Commitment 3

We will celebrate with people when things go well, and we will ensure there are debriefs (including supported individuals and those involved in their care and support as appropriate) and learning if things have not gone well.

Commitment 4

We will actively engage with all stakeholders and will value all contributions.

Commitment 5

We will work towards a single point of “trauma information” which is owned by the person and shared with those as appropriate and agreed. This will minimise information repetition, which can be re-traumatising.

Commitment 6

We will ensure that the six principles of trauma informed care are considered whenever someone’s care, support or interventions are reviewed. 

Commitment 7

We will ensure that learning (including the views of the person) is integral to care planning and can be seen in people’s care and support plans.

Commitment 8

We will ensure that third party assessments are shared in an accessible format with supported individuals and those involved in their care and support (where consent to share has been given). 

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