Day one of this training offers an overview of attachments and the impact of disruptions to attachment, particularly the impact for individuals with a learning disability. It also looks at trauma, including different types of complex trauma and the psycho-social and biological impact of these. It will explore why individuals that have experienced complex trauma might continue to have difficulties once the immediate risk of trauma has passed, eg once they are within adult services/supportive placements and no longer experiencing abusive relationships.

The second day looks in more detail about how such difficulties might manifest in adults with a learning disability, including links between attachment difficulties and complex trauma and behaviours that can be challenging. Links will be made to working within a trauma informed PBS model and how to implement this within assessments and plans; a range of theory and practice-based areas will be explored from the trauma informed care interventions and a range of psychological therapies. Some pre-existing knowledge of PBS would be desirable.

Who should attend?

This training is aimed at practitioners supporting individuals with learning disabilities who have experienced disrupted attachments and/or complex trauma (such as abuse).  This would include multi-disciplinary team members, service managers and direct support staff.

In the following video, Cathy Harding (Bild PBS Consultant and Consultant Psychologist) provides a brief overview of attachment difficulties and complex trauma, and the impact this has on people with a learning disability.