This practice guide summarises research and practice evidence about strategies for trauma-informed practice. Trauma-informed practice requires services and those working within them to be aware of trauma and trauma responses, and to facilitate services that promote client dignity and safety. For trauma-informed practice to be implemented effectively, it is important that frontline practitioners are supported at the management and organisation levels.

The guide has been developed for, and in consultation with, practitioners working in Family Mental Health Support Services (FMHSS). FMHSS provide early intervention and non-clinical community mental health support for children and young people aged up to 18 years who are showing signs of, or are at risk of, developing mental illness. The guide will also be useful to program managers and to other practitioners working with children and young people, parents and families.

The guide covers:

• what trauma-informed practice is
• organisation-level responsibilities for implementing trauma-informed practice and barriers
• trauma-informed practice strategies practitioners can implement.