TAP CARE GP Study

This study explored the gaps, enablers and obstacles to implementing trauma-informed care in UK general practice. 

Background 

Psychological trauma occurs as a result of childhood maltreatment, domestic abuse, community violence, and social injustice. We know that many patients and healthcare professionals have experienced multiple traumas. If universal prevalence and impacts of trauma are not addressed, services can re-traumatise both patients and staff.

Trauma-informed care is a new approach to service improvement that aims to prevent re-traumatisation and improve experiences and outcomes for all patients and staff.

Many UK guidelines recommend trauma-informed healthcare, however the evidence for its feasibility and effectiveness is limited. 

This study follows on from the TAP CARE Study, which included three systematic reviews and a review of UK policy and professional perspectives on trauma-informed approaches in primary and community health care. 

The research

We conducted a qualitative study in four general practices in southwest England. Data from review of 18 documents, 12 hours of structured facility observations, and 43 interviews with patients and healthcare providers was analysed using a thematic framework approach.

We are writing up academic paper, policy brief, and newsletter.

Study team, funder and contact details

Principal investigator: Dr Natalia Lewis

Funder: NIHR School for Primary Care Research

For further information, contact: trauma-informed-study@bristol.ac.uk, Tel: (+44) 0117 455 1988