A trauma-informed approach involves ensuring services do not retraumatize the person seeking them. Without an understanding of ongoing risk, treatment may be compromised and services may be unsafe. Without attending to culture, services can not be provided in the most relevant and accessible way possible. A toolkit from the National Center on Domestic Violence, Trauma, and Mental Health informs that a culturally responsive trauma informed approach includes:
In order to do this, consider the physical and sensory environment by making sure it is inclusive, accessible, and welcoming to people of all different backgrounds. Cultural and linguistic needs must be met by being affirming, responsive, representative, being accessible for people who speak different languages, and providing culturally specific sources of healing and resilience. The relational environment should be caring, respectful, empowering, transparent, employ people with lived experience, and foster community.
See this resource to learn more: Tools for Transformation: Becoming Accessible, Culturally Responsive, and Trauma-Informed Organizations—An Organizational Reflection Toolkit