Transforming the child welfare system from the inside out: Integrating trauma-informed practices into foster care services

Lotty, Maria; McCormack, Lisa; Campbell, Niamh; Stanley, Dylan

Transforming the child welfare system from the inside out: Integrating trauma-informed practices into foster care services

Files

IASWArticle_Final 30052024_MLottyaccepted (1) (5).pdf(450.41 KB)

Date

2024

Authors

Lotty, Maria

McCormack, Lisa

Campbell, Niamh

Stanley, Dylan

Publisher

Irish Association of Social Workers

Abstract

The Dublin South Central Area of Tusla identified the integration of trauma-informed practices as a service need, in the current significantly challenging practice climate. In response a research based collaborative project, the TARA Project, was developed that aims to embed trauma-informed practices through an area-wide approach. This article provides a background to the project, key findings of Phase One, which involved participants undertaking a university-based programme to support implementing trauma-informed practices through the TARA practice Model. Concrete practice changes were developed during the project. The article focuses on two new practice changes being implemented by the fostering team in the research site: The TARA Case Review, and the TARA Toolkit. These new practice initiatives are outlined, the rationale and application and implications for practice are discussed, reflecting changing child welfare practice from the inside. Future directions for practice and research are also highlighted.

Keywords

Child protection and welfare , Child welfare practice , Foster care , Trauma-informed care , Trauma-informed practice

Citation

Lotty, M., McCormack, L., Campbell, L., and Stanley, D. (2024). 'Transforming the child welfare system from the inside out: Integrating trauma-informed practices into foster care services’, The Irish Social Worker, Winter, pp. 21-37.