Trauma-Informed Welfare Advocacy Partnership

About the Project

“Trauma-Informed Welfare Advocacy Partnership” is a collaborative project between three local charities, Quetzal, Shama Women’s Centre and Charity Link. We are funded through the Lloyds Bank Foundation.

Our mission is to influence the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to adopt a more trauma-informed approach in their policies and practices. We believe that individuals impacted by trauma are disproportionately and unfairly having their benefits stopped, or being re-traumatised by their interactions with the benefits system and we are committed to changing this.

Our Mission

We aim to ensure that the benefits system recognises and accommodates the unique challenges faced by those who have experienced trauma. Our key goals include:

• Raising Awareness. – Educate policymakers about the impact of trauma on individuals’ ability to navigate the benefits system.
• Policy Advocacy – Work with the DWP to develop and implement trauma-informed policies that prevent unfair stoppages of benefits.
• Support and Empowerment. – Provide direct support to individuals affected by trauma, helping them to advocate for their rights within the benefits system.

Why Trauma-Informed Practices Matter

Trauma can profoundly affect an individual’s mental and physical health, often hindering their ability to meet the requirements set by benefits systems. Current policies frequently fail to account for these challenges, leading to unjust benefit stoppages. By adopting a trauma-informed approach, the DWP can create a more compassionate and fair system, ensuring that all individuals receive the support they need.

Our Approach

1. Research and Data Collection: Gather evidence on the experiences of trauma-affected individuals within the benefits system.
2. Engagement and Consultation: Work closely with trauma survivors to understand needs and develop practical solutions.
3. Training and Education: Offer training programs for DWP staff on trauma-informed care and its importance in administering benefits.
4. Policy Recommendations: Propose specific changes to DWP policies to better support trauma-affected individuals.

Get Involved

Join us in advocating for a fairer, more compassionate benefits system.  If you’ve been affected by trauma and have faced challenges with the benefits system, we want to hear from you. Write to us at deborah@quetzal.org.uk