Can Trauma Cards Help People Access Healthcare?

A Pilot Study by Healthwatch Essex

There are millions of people currently experiencing trauma, and millions more who have previously experienced it.  For many, experience of trauma can act as a barrier to seeking health and care services.

In 2022, Healthwatch Essex piloted Trauma Cards – wallet-sized cards that a person with trauma can show to a healthcare professional. The cards explain that the holder has experience of trauma, and includes a QR code link to further resources to help the professional/support worker etc provide sensitive, appropriate care.

The pilot undertaken by Healthwatch Essex was hugely successful, showing how a simple intervention can make it easier for people who have been through trauma to get the care they need and has proved that it can empower individuals who have experienced trauma to communicate more effectively with healthcare professionals and others and enables them to get the support they need.

CIS'ters was so impressed with the initiative that we have have cascaded cards produced by Healthwatch Essex to our 500+ Members (who live across England and Wales) and feedback from them again highlights that it is assisting them when accessing various healthcare settings.

We encourage everyone to look at the website created by Healthwatch Essex, which also includes a picture of their Trauma Card   https://traumahub.uk/

HEALTHWATCH ENGLAND – Are campaigning for a wider project

Following on from the initiative undertaken by Healthwatch Essex, the project has been taken to the next stage by Healthwatch England who published a report in March 2025, calling for a nationwide trauma card funded by the NHS. The report can be accessed here: Can Trauma Cards Help People Access Healthcare?