Sign language
For professionals
Many of the victims of compulsory social measures and placements still suffer the consequences today. Their troubling experiences with the authorities, in foster care and other institutions, can impact their lives well into old age. There is often a sense of deep mistrust in their interactions with professionals in the social and healthcare sectors, so being informed about injustices they experienced can be extremely helpful.
The loss of control, for example when being admitted to a hospital or a care home, can undermine previously effective coping strategies. Feelings of helplessness or dependence and the sense that their self-determination is under threat can reopen old wounds and retraumatise a person. Some affected individuals therefore react with withdrawal, anger or defiance. Others avoid medical assistance altogether out of fear of losing their self-determination or control.
Contacting social services or authorities can also be a major hurdle for many. Well-intentioned assistance may be perceived as interference, and formal procedures and shifting lines of authority may be seen as assertions of power, or even abuses of power.
Being mindful and respectful, and listening attentively can help build trust and facilitate cooperation.
Challenges in contact with those affected
- Many have little trust in professionals and authorities.
- Some are afraid of medical examinations or consultations.
- Interactions with authorities are often difficult. Forms, deadlines and changing contact persons can trigger suspicions or uncertainty.
Do you suspect that a person might have experienced trauma? Or that they might be experiencing re-traumatisation at present? Talk about it within the team. If you have specific questions about their personal history, approach them with great care.
Supporting information and materials
- The cantonal contact points advise both affected individuals and professionals.
- Caregivers – Betroffene für Betroffene (site in german): trained caregivers act as contacts for old-age and care homes, providing training to caregivers there. They also support those affected in dealing with authorities.
- The Pro Mente Sana foundation has developed recommendations on the topic “Trauma” (PDF)
- Paul Schiller Foundation: Gute Betreuung im Alter, “Wegweiser für gute Betreuung im Alter” (PDF)
- ATD Fourth World: “Poverty-Identity-Society” project. This is a project that was developed jointly with academics, practitioners, and people with ,experience of poverty. Research report for the project “Poverty-Identity-Society” - ATD Fourth World