Why we use it at Devoted Supports
As disability care support workers, our Devoted Supports team have had the privilege of working with many incredible individuals and their families. One approach that has profoundly shaped how we work is called trauma-informed care.
We believe that trauma-informed care is a crucial element in delivering compassionate and effective support for those living with disabilities.
What is Trauma-Informed Care?
At its core, trauma-informed care is a framework that focuses on the need to fully understand the participant in order to deliver effective care.
This approach recognises that many people have experienced trauma at some point in their lives, and these experiences can deeply impact how they interact with the world, including in a care setting.
Trauma can be a result of various experiences, including abuse, neglect, loss, or even medical interventions. It’s stored in the body and can influence a person’s behaviour, emotional responses, and even their physical health.
As support workers, it’s our responsibility to recognise this and approach each person with empathy, understanding that their reactions may be shaped by past experiences.
Why Do We Use Trauma-Informed Care?
We take a trauma-informed approach to disability support services because we believe it is compassionate, personalised and effective.
Trauma-informed care starts with the understanding that trauma has a widespread impact. It’s not just about the obvious signs but also about recognising the subtle ways trauma can manifest.
As support workers, part of our role is to recognise the signs and symptoms of trauma in the people we care for, as well as in their families and even our fellow staff members.
For example, someone may have difficulty trusting others or may become easily overwhelmed in certain situations.
By being aware of these signs, we can adapt our approach to meet each person where they are, ensuring they feel safe and supported.
How we use trauma-informed care at Devoted Supports
For us here at Devoted Supports, trauma-informed care is more than just a method – it’s a philosophy that guides us to provide care with empathy, understanding, and respect.
We apply this philosophy and knowledge in our everyday work here at Devoted Supports. This means integrating trauma awareness into every aspect of our care, from how we communicate and interact with clients to the policies and procedures that guide our services.
We are proud to say that the care we offer is as unique as the individuals we support, helping them to not just survive but thrive in their everyday lives.
Supporting you
If you’re considering disability support services for yourself or a loved one, understanding the importance of trauma-informed care can help you make an informed decision.
It’s not just about meeting physical needs but about creating a supportive environment that acknowledges past experiences and promotes overall well-being.
Trauma-informed care is about seeing the whole person, not just their disability, and providing care that truly makes a difference.
That is what drives us.