This guide is intended as a supplementary resource for staff at Children's Aid Societies and Indigenous Well-being Agencies. It is not intended as an authority on social work or legal practice, nor is it meant to be representative of all perspectives in child welfare. Staff are encouraged to think critically when reviewing publications and other materials, and to always confirm practice and policy at their agency.
This guide provides access to a variety of materials relating to trauma and child welfare, including resources on the following topics:
“Trauma informed care begins with the physical environment of an organization that promotes comfort, safety, and privacy for staff and clients. A culture that promotes respectful relationships between staff at all levels and between staff and clients also reinforces safety and trust. A TI organization provides clear expectations for employees and rewards excellence. TI care also recognizes and legitimizes the existence of indirect trauma and is proactive in providing staff with resources to manage this. TI organizations promote choice, collaboration, and empowerment when staff and clients have an opportunity to have input into policies that impact them. Choice, collaboration, and empowerment are also promoted when staff are provided opportunities for continuing education and to improve upon their work, and recognized for their contributions.”
- Carolyn Knight, The Routledge International Handbook of Social Work Supervision