Guidelines for Planning and Facilitating Trauma- and Violence-Informed Meetings

Keywords Organizational Capacity Building, Trauma-Informed, Community-engaged Research
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Summary

The Knowledge Hub at Western University is a Canadian initiative that connects efforts to prevent and address family and gender-based violence across the country. Led by the Centre for Research & Education on Violence against Women & Children, the Knowledge Hub supports learning, builds relationships, and shares knowledge so organizations can improve their work using trauma- and violence-informed approaches.

The Guidelines for Planning and Facilitating Trauma- and Violence-Informed Meetings is a brief, practical resource to help people plan and run meetings safely, inclusively, and respectfully. It applies trauma- and violence-informed principles, such as trust, choice, and collaboration, to in-person, virtual, and hybrid meetings.

Policy & Practice Implications

  • Organizations can use this guide to make meetings safer and more inclusive, especially when working with people who have experienced trauma or violence.
  • Practitioners and facilitators can use the Guide’s strategies to create supportive spaces, build relationships, and make sure participants feel valued and able to take part.
  • Practitioners and organizations can use the Guide’s considerations and linked resources to thoughtfully plan meetings with Indigenous partners and Elders.