Course which helps police officers to recognise trauma in individuals was extended to other agencies
Twenty-five people from various agencies took part in the most recent training course. Photos supplied
Press release:
Last November, 2024, the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) hosted two UK instructors from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, who provided BPS staff, frontline patrol officers and investigators with essential skills and knowledge on trauma-informed approaches.
This training equipped the initial group of BPS officers to recognise the signs and symptoms of trauma in individuals, to prevent re-traumatisation, and to ensure that they are aware of available support agencies.
Additionally, the training emphasised the importance of police officers recognising these signs in themselves.
Building on that foundation, Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police James Howard highlighted that, “The BPS continued the trauma-informed training initiative this year, from 14th May, for two weeks. To date nearly 70 officers have received this training, enhancing their ability to serve our community with empathy, and understanding, to better serve the public.”
He further stated, “In addition to our officers, we extended the latest trauma-informed awareness training opportunity to several of our sister agencies, which included the Department of Child & Family Services, the Centre Against Abuse, Saving Children And Revealing Secrets (SCARS), the Mirrors Programme, Court Services, the Department of Health, Mid-Atlantic Wellness Institute, the Department of Corrections, as well as the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service. The course was very well received, with 25 participants attending.”
In conclusion, Acting Assistant Commissioner Howard noted, “We are excited about the positive impact this training has had and are considering bringing the trainers in again later this year.
Trauma-informed training is crucial in fostering a compassionate and effective approach to not only law enforcement, but also any helping agency, thereby ensuring we all can better support the community and each other.”
