Understanding and Working with the Impact of Vicarious and Secondary Trauma

This course is aimed at Barnsley professionals and explores the psychological and emotional impact of working with individuals who have experienced trauma. It introduces the concepts of vicarious trauma, secondary traumatic stress, and burnout, examining how these can affect professional practice, wellbeing, and long-term engagement in frontline roles. The session also focuses on practical strategies to manage and prevent burnout, supporting resilience and sustainable practice.

Working with trauma-exposed individuals can have a significant cumulative impact on professionals. Research suggests that between 40–85% of helping professionals (including social workers, healthcare staff, and those in safeguarding roles) may experience symptoms associated with secondary traumatic stress at some point in their careers. Studies also indicate that burnout affects up to one-third of the UK workforce in high-demand sectors, with those regularly exposed to trauma at increased risk.

Vicarious trauma can lead to changes in how individuals view themselves, others, and the world, often mirroring the impacts experienced by those they support. Common effects include emotional exhaustion, reduced empathy, intrusive thoughts, difficulty maintaining professional boundaries, and a diminished sense of professional efficacy. Without appropriate support, this can contribute to increased sickness absence, staff turnover, and reduced quality of care.

Evidence highlights the importance of recognising early signs and embedding preventative approaches. Organisational support, reflective supervision, and trauma-informed workplace cultures are key protective factors. Alongside this, individual strategies such as effective self-care, peer support, and maintaining boundaries play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of secondary trauma and sustaining professional wellbeing.

This course is suitable for anyone working professionally with clients who have experienced, or continue to experience, trauma, and aims to support both personal resilience and effective practice.

Aims of the session:

• Understand how working with trauma can impact your practice and your motivation in your role
• Define secondary trauma and the best way to manage it
• Link your understanding of secondary trauma to your own practice
• Appreciate the importance of self-care in alleviating the impact of secondary trauma

This session CPD accredited and has limited space. To book your place please do so via PODS here.