News: Launching the Trauma-Informed Approaches Toolkit for International Development Practitioners

Chemonics is thrilled to have officially launched the Trauma-Informed Approaches Toolkit for International Development Practitioners at the Trauma-Informed Approaches in Development Summit earlier today as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign for 2023.

Designed to be a versatile guide applicable at any stage in the project lifecycle, the toolkit follows the comprehensive stages of assessment; design; implementation; monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL); and staff care. Recognizing the significance of mental health in international development, and that one in four people globally is affected by mental health concerns, this toolkit is an accessible resource tailored for practitioners engaged in international development. It aims to embed trauma-informed approaches and tools into projects, ensuring a holistic and sensitive response to the diverse challenges faced by communities globally.

The Trauma-Informed Approaches Toolkit provides practitioners with invaluable insights and strategies to navigate the complexities of trauma within the international development landscape. Whether in the assessment phase, where understanding the community’s unique needs is crucial, or during the implementation phase, where translating insights into action is paramount, this toolkit is a reliable companion for practitioners striving to make a positive impact. By aligning with Chemonics’ commitment to fostering resilience and self-reliance, the toolkit addresses the unique challenges faced in international development projects. Recognizing the importance of staff well-being, the staff-care component of the toolkit emphasizes the significance of supporting practitioners themselves, ensuring that they can handle the emotional demands of their roles.

Part of the Trauma-Informed Approaches in Development Summit, this launch is a pivotal moment in the discourse on trauma-sensitive practices within international development. The toolkit underscores Chemonics’ dedication to promoting methodologies that prioritize the well-being of communities and practitioners alike.

Nada Raslan, a gender equality and social inclusion specialist with Chemonics and the lead author of the toolkit, notes, “This toolkit is not only a testament to Chemonics’ ongoing efforts to contribute meaningfully to inclusive global development, but also highlights the accessibility of integrating trauma-informed programming into any sector and context, emphasizing the importance of creating safe and supportive environments for all. We encourage international development practitioners to explore this resource, providing them with the necessary tools to create sustainable change for their teams and communities being served.”