In November, BEST began offering our newest training, the Stress, Trauma, and Resilience Training that we created specifically for employers in our Safe Jobs Collaborative. This new training is helping managers understand how to successfully supervise people who are survivors of human trafficking. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to managing someone who has lived through trauma, but this training is teaching managers how they can remain flexible, be more understanding, create a positive workplace culture, and support staff members who have lived through severe trauma.
In this training, managers are learning how long-term, complex trauma that involves abuse, violence, and pain affects the brain and body. The impact of many traumatic events over the course of a lifetime can cause physical, mental, and emotional symptoms in people that can last for years, even after the person is out of harm’s way. It’s important for Safe Jobs employers taking this training to thoughtfully evaluate their businesses’ workplace culture, as well as their own management styles, and consider whether they are creating a safe and inclusive environment for trafficking survivors and people with PTSD who may be more likely to experience triggers that can lead to stress in the workplace.
In addition, managers taking this training are learning how they can preventively reduce conflicts before they even happen and de-escalate stressful situations when they do arise. Supervisors will leave this training with an understanding of what they can do to help survivors who are transitioning into stable employment feel valuable, supported, and confident that they are now in a safe place to work.
