North Ayrshire Council to become "trauma informed"

North Ayrshire Council could become the first “trauma informed” local authority in Scotland.

Frontline staff are getting special training on how to deal with people who’ve suffered childhood abuse.

The move aims to ensure workers have empathy for residents’ backgrounds.

Research shows those who have been victims of abuse, neglect or other painful experiences often suffer setbacks in adulthood.

Speaking at full council this week, Stephen Brown, North Ayrshire Health & Social Care Partnership director said “champions” will be picked to push the trauma agenda.

He said efforts are being made “to ensure we provide the right support for people who are accessing services who may have been traumatised throughout their lives.”

Workers across different council departments have taken part in sessions including those in the contact centre. Library, housing, community development and local office employees will also receive tips on trauma awareness.

North Ayrshire Council Provost Ian Clarkson said: “It appears to be a very successful venture and I’m delighted it has not stopped yet. We are going further.”

A council report said: “There is much we can do to also ensure that people who have experienced trauma through their lives are appropriately supported when they interact with services.”

It added: “It is important, therefore, that trauma is recognised and understood by staff who fulfil a range of customer-facing roles.”

Ayrshire Police Division have been rolling out training to ensure officers are “trauma informed.