Novas Annual Report 2022

Annual Report 2022
NOVAS is committed to providing support and services through the lens
of Trauma Informed Practice (TIP). We recognise the multiple and complex
traumas experienced by our clients and the vicarious trauma our frontline
staff are exposed to through the delivery of their roles. We try to create
environments, culture, structures and policies that consider trauma and
prevent triggering trauma responses among clients and residents.
Trauma Informed Practice helps us to better understand the trauma induced
behaviours our clients often present with. It enables us to keep those with
the most enduring trauma engaged in our services by creating environments
where clients feel safe, respected and listened to.
During 2022 we continued to grow our suite of internal TIP training,
including specific training for managers, which enabled our management
team to develop and enhance the support and supervision structures we
offer to our staff. We now provide a range of trauma training for all staff, for
trauma reps and for managers, as well and refresher training for those who
need it.
Each NOVAS service has a TIP rep who, along with their manager, endeavours
to embed structures and systems of trauma informed practice within their
service or department. Change and development is overseen by our TIP
Steering Group and supported by our CEO and voluntary Board of Directors.
In August 2022, NOVAS conducted the first trauma audit in the sector.
Bellevue House Children’s Home underwent an external TIP audit, led by the
clients and underpinned by the TIP Quality Standards, which reviewed the
physical environment, culture, client wellbeing and staffing arrangements
within the service. The voice of the client was central to this audit. The results
were extremely positive and enabled us to implement targeted measures in
identified areas of improvement, specifically for that service.
During the year, NOVAS was delighted to present at the FEANTSA conference
on the enhanced wellbeing of staff due to trauma practice and at the National
Trauma Informed Conference on NOVAS’ trauma journey.
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