The Safe and Secure practice guide and framework has been developed through two decades of support to children affected by violence and abuse. The framework offers a sequenced, relationship-based approach to healing and has a specific focus on the mother and child relationship as a significant element of recovery from trauma.

Safe and Secure is a practical, evidence-informed guide for adults who care for or work with children affected by family and domestic violence. It explains how early experiences of harm can impact children’s development, behaviour and relationships—and what adults can do to support healing.

This guide includes:

• How abuse and neglect affect the developing brain
• Signs of trauma in children’s behaviour
• Strategies to build emotional safety and connection
• Tips for responding to behaviours with empathy and consistency

Ideal for parents, carers, educators and practitioners, this resource helps adults understand trauma’s impact and respond in ways that build trust, safety and hope.