Module overview
This module aims to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills to engage in trauma-informed, non-judgemental, and appropriate communication when working with or discussing victims and survivors of exploitation, abuse, or other traumatic experiences. It provides a well-rounded view of trauma-informed communication by exploring various key aspects, including non-verbal communication, de-escalation strategies, and organisational policies.
Course introduction
Welcome to the Trauma-Informed Communication: Using Appropriate Language online module.
This course is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills to communicate in a way that supports victims and survivors of abuse, exploitation, and trauma.
By understanding and applying the principles of trauma-informed communication, you will help create a supportive and empowering environment for those affected by trauma.
Learning outcomes
- The foundations of what trauma-informed communication is.
- The harmful effects of victim-blaming language and how to avoid it.
- Practical principles for using appropriate, supportive language.
- Knowledge of how to develop a trauma-informed approach in various settings.
- Increased awareness of a survivor’s reactions or behaviours that may be related to past trauma.
About the course
The course follows a linear structure. There are three buttons available: Previous Lesson/Topic, Mark Complete, and Next Lesson/Topic.
If you’re going through the course for the first time, please use the Mark Complete button as you finish each lesson. The Next Topic button is meant for navigation and is especially useful when revisiting the course.
For first-time learners, the module must be completed in order, following the structured path. However, if you’re revisiting the module, you can freely navigate and access any lesson or topic as needed.
Terminology
Note 1: In this module, you’ll notice that the terms “victim” and “survivor” are used.
These terms are both widely recognised but carry different connotations:
- “Victim” is often used in legal or procedural contexts, such as when referring to someone who has been harmed by a crime or traumatic event.
- “Survivor” is more commonly used in therapeutic or supportive contexts and emphasises resilience, recovery, and empowerment.
While some individuals may identify with one term over the other, it’s important to use language that is respectful, neutral, and reflective of the context in which you are working.
Why This Matters: People process trauma differently, and their preferences for how they are described may vary. By using both terms interchangeably in this module, we aim to reflect the diversity of perspectives and experiences among those affected by trauma, crime, and abuse.
Note 2: We also recognise that survivors come from all walks of life and may have experienced different forms of trauma or abuse. This means that anyone we interact with may have a trauma history, reinforcing the need for a compassionate, trauma-informed approach in all professional settings.
- Disclosed survivors: Direct lived experience of abuse and will identify themselves.
- Undisclosed survivors: Direct lived experience of abuse but have yet to identify themselves.
- Supporters of survivors : Advocating for survivors, personally or professionally.
Note 3: This module covers trauma-informed communication and may use terminology that differs from the language used in your specific service or professional setting. Additionally, some case studies may reflect situations outside your usual remit.
However, the principles explored are widely applicable across different roles and contexts. We encourage you to focus on the underlying concepts and adapt them to your own professional practice as needed.