Trauma informed care for Stolen Generations survivors

Stolen Generations survivors endured trauma and grief as a result of their forcible removal from family, community and culture. Survivors were often subjected to harsh and degrading treatment including physical, emotional and sexual abuse, exploitation and racism, often in institutions. 

This has had deep and often lifelong impacts for survivors, as well as their children and grandchildren. 

When interacting with survivors and their families, it’s helpful to recognise the trauma many people carry.

It is also important to understand that, while not all will identify as Stolen Generations survivors, they may identify as being forcibly removed or taken.

Understanding triggers for Stolen Generations survivors

Interacting with services and staff is often difficult for Stolen Generations survivors, as everyday events can trigger the original trauma of forced removal. This can happen if a situation brings back the lack of control they experienced when they were forcibly taken from their families.

Common triggers for Stolen Generations survivors include reminders of childhood trauma, for example:

• Being touched, particularly without permission
• Clinical settings resembling a dormitory or institution, including certain smells, room or office colour schemes, uniforms and face masks
• Situations that could bring back feelings of the lack of control survivors experienced as children, including dealing with large bureaucracies like the aged care system
• Being authoritative through tone of voice, body language, facial expressions and/or gestures.