Helping West Yorkshire become a more trauma-informed community

People across West Yorkshire are being invited to take part in an important online event exploring how we can better support those affected by trauma, adversity, and violence.

The Adversity, Trauma, and Resilience Knowledge Exchange 2025 will take place online on Tuesday 25 March and Thursday 27 March, with a flexible, drop-in format so people can join the sessions that interest them. It is open to everyone, from professionals working in health, care, education, and criminal justice to members of the public who want to learn more about building a more supportive and understanding society.

The event will cover real-life challenges that affect individuals, families, and communities, including:

• The impact of violence against women and girls and how to prevent it
• The experiences of neurodiverse people in the criminal justice system
• How A&E navigators support people in crisis
• The role of palliative care in trauma recovery
• The trauma of racism and how it affects mental and physical health

Emm Irving, Head of Improving Population Health, West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, said: “Trauma and adversity affect so many people, often in ways that are not immediately visible. Whether it’s childhood experiences, violence, discrimination, or loss, the impact can last a lifetime. But by raising awareness and sharing knowledge, we can help people heal, reduce harm, and create a more compassionate society. This event is a chance for everyone, whether you work in public services or simply want to understand more, to be part of the conversation and the solution.”

The event is part of West Yorkshire’s ambition to become a trauma-informed region by 2030, meaning services and communities will be better equipped to recognise, understand, and respond to the impact of trauma.

For more information and to register, visit the Knowledge Exchange site.