Introduction
This is the introduction page for the section of the Nottinghamshire Healthcare website dedicated to the Centre for Trauma, Resilience and Growth.
Along with this introduction page there are numerous 'sub-pages'. To navigate through these, simply click on 'Centre for Trauma, Resilience and Growth' on the menu on the left, and a list of sub-pages - ranging from 'Who's who within the centre' to 'What's new' - should automatically be displayed.
Background
The Centre for Trauma, Resilience and Growth is a partnership between the Trauma Service situated within Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust and the Research Group for the Study of Trauma, Resilience and Growth within the University of Nottingham - this brings together staff from the School of Sociology and Social Policy, School of Education and the Institute for Work, Health and Organisations to form an interdisciplinary partnership dedicated to therapy, education, consultancy and research related to trauma.
Aim
We aim to provide an interdisciplinary focus for practitioners and researchers interested in trauma, its effects, and therapy. The Centre provides an umbrella for practitioners and researchers working locally in the NHS and the University to meet and to develop research, and to develop effective evidence based upon therapeutic methods. We are concerned with the full spectrum of functioning,from post traumatic stress to post traumatic growth.
History
Nottinghamshire Healthcare's Trauma Service opened in 1998 under the direction of Steve Regel. It was officially opened by Terry Waite and has been providing a valuable service to the Midlands and wider community for more than ten years.
The partnership between the Trauma Service and the University of Nottingham was created in 2006 with the appointment of Professor Stephen Joseph, creating the largest centre for therapy, consultancy, education and research dedicated to trauma in the Midlands. We offer a concentrated focus for research activity and wide ranging therapeutic expertise, and now aim to be a flagship service for the Midlands.
Find out more about Professor Joseph
Serving the local and international community
The primary aim of the Centre is to serve the local community.
The 2001 census recorded a population of 284,300 in Nottingham itself, with around 750,000 people living in the surrounding conurbation. The East Midlands, including Derbyshire, Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, give a combined population figure of 4.2 million. Based on the statistical evidence gleaned from the US and NI studies relating to the incidence of PTSD [using the lower projected figures of 8%] it is likely that in Nottinghamshire alone there will be 84,000 persons who will suffer PTSD during their lifetime; in the East Midlands region the figure would be 336,000. Research indicates that these individuals are likely to visit their GPs 30% more frequently than other clients.
Statement of Understanding with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC)
Since 2001 the Trust has had a Statement of Understanding with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). This allows the Centre to provide consultancy services to the IFRC Psychological Support Programme (PSP), hosted by the Danish Red Cross. There is a useful page of information about psychological support on the IFRC's website. An example of the Centre's work with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) was reported in an edition of the IFRC's newsletter, 'Coping With Crisis', which can be downloaded below.
In January 2005 the Trust seconded staff to the British Red Cross Crisis Support Team, which supports the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in assisting UK nationals affected by major incidents abroad.
Effects of traumatic stress
The majority of people exposed to a serious traumatic event often find they will recover in time with few ill effects, although they often find that their attitude and outlook on life changes as a result of their experience - sometimes in a positive way in which they report that they feel they have benefited in some way through an enhanced appreciation of life, and the development of new values about what is important. However, some people may develop a range of problems in living; some may develop phobias, problems with social interaction and cut themselves off from family and friends. Other problems include depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. There is hope, however, for those affected if they seek help sooner rather than later.
UK Trauma Group
The Centre for Trauma, Resilience and Growth is a member of the UK Trauma Group (UKTG), an informal network of practitioners working with traumatised people in the UK. A review of UKTG members is an effective way of assessing the totality of services, particularly those clinicians running multi-professional, specialist centres or research teams that have expressed a commitment to evidence-based practice.
UK Psychological Trauma Society
Steve Regel is a member of the UK Psychological Trauma Society (UKPTS), the first UK organisation looking to meet the needs of all professionals working with people and communities affected by trauma. Visit the UKPTS website to find out more.
For general information on The Centre for Trauma, Resilience and Growth, St Anns House, 114 Thorneywood Mount, Nottingham NG3 2PZ please contact, Liz Edwards via email at Liz.Edwards2@nottshc.nhs.uk or call 0115 8440586.
