A new online training program on dealing with trauma-affected children and young people has been announced for use by the State’s kinship and foster carers.
To be implemented by the Department for Child Protection (DCP) and the Australian Childhood Foundation, Caring for Children and Young People with Trauma, is to be available in the coming months, with the course helping carers better understand the impact trauma has on child development.
The Department said three packages of trauma training would be available including content specifically for foster carers, kinship carers and carers of Aboriginal children and young people.
Minister for Child Protection, Katrine Hildyard said the course featured an online, virtual classroom for carers to reflect on content and ask questions.
Ms Hildyard said 500 carers would also have the opportunity to complete additional study with a unit of competency included towards a Certificate IV in Child Youth and Family Intervention.
“The course provides vital support for carers through strengthening their understanding of trauma-informed behaviours and responses,” Ms Hildyard said.
“Through opening their homes, hearts and lives to some of our most vulnerable children and young people, foster and kinship carers make an invaluable contribution and help transform young people’s lives,” she said.
Director of Therapeutic Care at the Australian Childhood Foundation Centre for Excellence, Janise Mitchell said that caring for children with trauma can be confusing and overwhelming at times.
“Carers often tell me how helpful it is to have an understanding of trauma,” Ms Mitchell said.
“When carers are given the opportunity to understand how the trauma caused by abuse and violence can disrupt children’s development, they come to know that it is in the attuned, everyday interactions between carers and children that they can make a big difference in their lives,” she said.
“The needs and behaviours of children make more sense, and they feel more empowered to know how best to care for them,” the Director said.
