Translating trauma-informed knowledge into child welfare practice: findings from a participatory practice development initiative

Trauma-Informed Practice (TIP) is increasingly recognised as a critical priority within child welfare services; however, how trauma-informed knowledge is translated into practice within pressurised and under-resourced systems remains poorly understood. This article reports on the translation of a trauma-informed knowledge approach within Ireland’s national Child Welfare Agency. Using a participatory methodology, trauma-informed practice initiatives were co-created with child welfare professionals through cluster groups. This study used a qualitative approach; data was gathered through semi-structured interviews with nine cluster members across two rounds of data collection in one research site and supported by an iterative concept-mapping tool. Data were analysed thematically and validated through triangulation with the research team, an international expert, and a Stakeholder Group. Three overarching themes were identified: Coming Together, which captured the relational foundations, shared motivations, and early challenges experienced by cluster members; Shifting Sands, which documented the structural and systemic barriers encountered, including unclear expectations, lack of protected time, an unannounced regulatory inspection, and the uncertainty associated with organisational reform; and Process of Change, which reflected the participant experience of cultural, relational, and practice-level changes which they attributed to the process. The findings indicate that participatory trauma-informed initiatives involved experiences of cultural and practice change within child welfare services. However, protected time, adequate resourcing, clear communication, and committed leadership were identified as essential prerequisites for sustainable implementation. These findings have significant implications for the design, governance, and resourcing of participatory practice-development initiatives in child welfare settings nationally and internationally.