To ask the Minister of Justice to outline the steps her Department is taking to explore the links between childhood trauma and offending.

The correlation between childhood trauma and a range of negative outcomes for individuals, including engaging in offending behaviour, has been well documented in research carried out in both the UK and internationally. Included in this research is a Public Health Wales report (2015) which indicated that individuals with 4 or more Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) were 20 times more likely to be incarcerated during their lifetime. A further study carried out amongst the offender population in Wales in 2018 highlighted that over 8 in 10 offenders reported at least 1 ACE, and almost half had 4 or more ACEs.

As a result of the clear evidence linking childhood trauma and offending behaviour, a trauma informed approach has been formally endorsed by my Department’s Departmental Board and referenced as a priority within the Departmental Plan for 2021/22. In addition, a Trauma Informed Practice Subgroup has been established, the remit of which is to ensure that this approach is further embedded across the justice system.

The work of the subgroup will build on initiatives undertaken since 2018, aimed at ensuring that measures are in place to recognise the impact of past trauma on those within our care and to ensure that steps are taken to avoid re-traumatisation where possible. As part of this work, senior staff from all justice organisations have participated in the Safeguarding Board NI’s trauma informed leadership programme- “Be the Change”.

Furthermore, staff at all levels who work with those who may be affected by trauma and/or adversity have received Trauma Informed Practice and ACE awareness training.