Free training sessions for Ukrainian refugee hosts and support workers

Hosts of Ukrainian refugees and the support workers involved in their care are invited to free training sessions designed to help them become more trauma aware.

Led by counselling psychologist Dr Cara Gibson, the Refugee Host Discussion Forum will take place online on Thursday, April 20 at 12pm, while Trauma Management in the Workplace follows on Wednesday, April 26 at 9.30am.

The sessions have been funded by grant-making trust The Allen Lane Foundation and CFC Underwriting, and are the latest in a series of trauma-informed webinars held by TTI over the last year. 100 per cent of previous participants said they would recommend the training to others.

Trauma Treatment International CEO Quen Geuter explained why the sessions are so important. “We are deeply concerned that UK hosts of Ukrainians escaping war have not been supported in understanding trauma – its signs, how it affects victims, and how it can affect those who are exposed vicariously,” she said.

“Meanwhile, support workers caring for both the refugees and their hosts are at risk of secondary trauma and burnout through their very demanding roles. It is vital that both hosts and support workers are given the tools they need to ensure their efforts do not come at a personal cost.”

The 90-minute training sessions will outline what trauma is and how to recognise its symptoms, as well as how to support someone who is suffering. Support workers will be given advice on burnout and tips on avoiding vicarious trauma. In both workshops, participants can discuss their personal experiences, and learn how to tackle the specific issues they are facing.

Quen said: “If we are committed to supporting refugees, giving them the best opportunity to resettle is only possible if we respond to them in a trauma-informed way. By helping hosts and support workers to better understand and be aware of trauma, we can empower refugees to build the new life they deserve.”

She added: “Our thanks go to The Allen Lane Foundation and CFC Underwriting for their generous grants to help us continue this vital work.”

Click here to sign up to the Refugee Host Discussion Forum or here to enrol on the Trauma Management in the Workplace session.