Trauma-informed practice in BC Corrections

Many of the individuals in our care have personal and intergenerational histories of violence and trauma. Trauma-informed practice reframes the perspective of “what is wrong” with an individual to “what happened” to them.

BC Corrections’ Trauma-Informed Practice Guide team focuses on enhancing our use and awareness of trauma-informed practice. Approaching our work with this awareness emphasizes physical, psychological and emotional safety and creates opportunities for individuals to rebuild a sense of positive self-control and empowerment.

The four principles of trauma-informed practice that we are introducing into all aspects of our work are:

• Realizing the widespread impact of trauma.
• Recognizing the signs and symptoms of trauma.
• Responding by fully integrating and collaborating.
• Resisting re-traumatization.

BC Corrections is committed to exploring how trauma-informed practice can support addressing the Calls to Action by Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People, the BC First Nations Justice Strategy and the Métis Justice Strategy.