This is a preview of the handbook, providing an introduction to the intervention and how it’s delivered. It outlines the structured and evidence-based journey the intervention takes the young person and safe parents through from their first welcome into a refuge, to moving on.
Childhood trauma and domestic abuse intervention
Children living in a refuge have often experienced significant trauma and disruption at a critical stage in their development. Early, accessible support plays an important role in helping them feel safer and build the foundations for long-term wellbeing.
Recognising the need for support that is both evidence-informed and practical to deliver in refuge settings, Refuge and the UK Trauma Council worked with safe parents, children, and experts in childhood trauma and domestic abuse services.
The result is the Children’s Activity Time (CHAT) project: a structured therapeutic intervention designed specifically for children aged 5-12 years old living in a refuge.
As we look towards wider dissemination of the intervention from 2027, we welcome interest from organisations, partners and funders who share our commitment to improving outcomes for children impacted by domestic abuse.
