“Peace of Mind” report was launched today (Friday 20th September) at City Hall London and highlights the positive impact of introducing a psychologically informed environment (PIE) into 5 Solace refuges.
This report is an evaluation of the Refuge Access for All Project carried out by AVA for Solace Women’s Aid using qualitative and quantitative data from service users, managers and staff.
A Copy of the report can be found here, and a summary is available here.
The evaluation concluded that the project has been successful on a number of measures:
- A significant reduction in the number and proportion of service users turned away because their mental health needs could not be met.
- A marked improvement in staff understanding, knowledge and confidence around the psychological needs of clients, and how best to support them.
- Positive client feedback through the Trauma Informed Practice scales.
- Staff and managers are able to clearly identify practical examples of improved service user support as part of the project
- A number of policy changes have been introduced with the involvement and support of the Service User Forum and managers alike
- Play therapy interventions have had a positive impact on children and also their relationship with their mothers.
For more information about AVA’s consultancy work, including evaluations is available here or please contact us.
