Welcome to Bolton’s ACEs & Trauma‑Informed Programme
We’re really glad you’re here. In Bolton, we’re working together to create a kinder, more supportive, and more resilient community for everyone. Our ACEs and Trauma‑Informed Programme brings people, services, and communities together to understand the impact of childhood adversity and to make sure every child, young person and family feels safe, supported, and able to thrive.
Sometimes life can be tough, traumatic events in your childhood can lead to experiencing physical, behavioural and mental health problems, even in adulthood. However, with the right support you can live a happy, healthy fulfilling life
Explore this page to learn more about our approach, our vision, and how you can get involved in helping us build a trauma‑aware Bolton.
Understanding ACEs and Trauma and why it matters
ACEs are potentially traumatic events that occur before age 18.
Toxic stress from ACEs can change brain and physical development.
Examples include:
- Abuse: Physical, verbal, sexual
- Neglect: Emotional & physical
- Household challenges: Alcohol/drug abuse, domestic violence, mental health problems, Being in prison or secure place by law, parental separation/divorce
Consequences of ACEs on brain development
Toxic stress response: Prolonged activation of stress hormones disrupts brain.
Impact on Brain Regions:
- Prefrontal Cortex: Impaired decision-making and impulse control
- Amygdala: Heightened fear and anxiety responses
- Hippocampus: Reduced memory and learning capacity
- Neurochemical Changes: Altered cortisol regulation and neurotransmitter balance
Trauma definition
“Trauma results from an event, series of events, or set of circumstances that is experienced by an individual as harmful or life threatening. While unique to the individual, generally the experience of trauma can cause lasting adverse effects, limiting the ability to function and achieve mental, physical, social, emotional or spiritual well-being”.
(Office for Health Improvement Disparities, 2022)
Trauma Informed Practice
In Bolton we are on a journey to work more in a trauma informed way, this is known as trauma informed practice.
This helps to:
- Understand that trauma exposure can impact a person's development and life experiences.
- Recognise the signs and symptoms of trauma in people.
- Realise the impact of trauma and understand potential paths for recovery and support.
- This can help ensure services are delivered in ways which prevent further harm and re-traumatisation by helping people build trust, feel safe and supported.
By being trauma-informed we can nurture:
- Safety
- Trustworthiness
- Choice
- Collaboration
- Empowerment
- Cultural
