Trauma and Child Criminal Exploitation

Children and young people affected by serious youth violence and child criminal exploitation (CCE) often experience significant trauma that shapes their behaviour, decision-making, and ability to seek help. Understanding trauma and applying trauma-informed practice is essential for professionals working with vulnerable individuals who have been coerced, manipulated, or exposed to high-risk environments.

This course explores the dynamics of trauma, its impact on brain development, behaviour, and emotional wellbeing, and how it relates to CCE. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of how trauma affects young people’s ability to engage with support services and develop practical strategies to respond with sensitivity and effectiveness. The session emphasises a strengths-based approach, helping professionals to support resilience, recovery, and empowerment rather than reinforcing feelings of shame or victimisation.

The training will also examine the tactics used by exploiters, the role of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and how trauma-informed interventions can prevent further harm. Attendees will learn how to create safe, supportive spaces for young people, build trust, and implement strategies that encourage engagement without re-traumatisation.

By the end of the course, participants will have the knowledge and confidence to recognise trauma responses, apply trauma-informed techniques, and support young people in navigating their experiences with a focus on resilience and long-term wellbeing.

Ideal for:

• Youth workers, social workers, and safeguarding professionals
• Educators, school staff, and alternative provision teams
• Mental health practitioners and therapeutic professionals
• Police officers, legal professionals, and community safety teams

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the impact of trauma on young people affected by CCE
• Recognising trauma responses and behaviours in at-risk individuals
• Applying trauma-informed practice to build trust and engagement
• Strength-based approaches to supporting resilience and recovery
• Effective multi-agency collaboration to safeguard vulnerable young people

Additional Benefits:

• Gain confidence in working with trauma-affected young people
• Learn practical strategies for preventing re-traumatisation
• Develop a deeper understanding of ACEs and their long-term impact
• Access expert insights on trauma-informed safeguarding practices

This course is essential for professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of trauma and child criminal exploitation while equipping themselves with the tools to provide compassionate and effective support.

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Host or Publisher Learning & Development Hub