A trauma informed approach is required at the heart of planning for meeting the immediate, medium and long-term needs of the children arriving into Ireland.
Posted on Friday 29 April 2022 in Press Releases
29 April 2022. Barnardos children’s charity is urging the Government to develop a trauma informed response to support the short, medium and long term needs and wellbeing of children and families forced to flee Ukraine.
Barnardos CEO Suzanne Connolly said: “Essential services identified to meet the needs of these families must take into consideration the significant trauma of fleeing war, death of a family member or parent, being forced to leave their homes and families, enduring a challenging journey and entering a new country without speaking the language. Many may be experiencing toxic stress, be in a state of fight or flight, and be hyper sensitive to their surroundings – their environment, housing, to sounds and touch.
“The immediate response and commitment from the Government to welcome Ukrainian families is to be commended, as is the fast acting impressive response of voluntary organisations – these actions will guarantee the safety of thousands of children. However, as children and families settle in to Ireland it is vital that their supports take into account the trauma they have been through and their needs longer term – and this includes a long term housing plan.
“There is a risk of re traumatizing these families unless there is an appropriate local and national response. We are urging the Government to promote and deliver a national trauma informed response and for training to be provided for agencies, host families, housing teams, early years services, schools and local communities so that all services working with these families can provide compassionate and considered supports that take into account the trauma they have experienced.”
Barnardos response to support the wellbeing of families from Ukraine includes:
Training and Webinars
ENDS
Notes to Editor: Barnardos officially adopted a trauma informed approach for all its services in 2019 - Strategy | Barnardos
About Barnardos: Barnardos’ mission is to deliver services and work with families, communities, and our partners to transform the lives of vulnerable children who are affected by adverse childhood experiences. Because childhood lasts a lifetime www.barnardos.ie
For further information, please contact: Barnardos Press Office: 01 7080442 / 086 0445966