Designing with Dignity: Trauma-Informed Training for the Department of Social Services

The Department of Social Services needed to train staff to understand and sensitively respond to people affected by forced adoption—a historically traumatic and complex issue. The challenge was to create a safe, effective learning experience that acknowledged deep emotional pain without re-traumatising participants. Survivor involvement was essential, requiring a trauma-informed, co-design approach that respected lived experience. The project also had to be scalable, accessible, and deliver consistent impact across diverse staff roles. Balancing emotional depth with government training requirements, the project overcame ethical, emotional, and logistical constraints to deliver a meaningful, system-changing solution.

The design solution was shaped through a collaborative, trauma-informed process. Portable worked closely with DSS, Blue Knot Foundation and an Advisory Group to incorporate lived experience and expert insight from the outset. The team adopted an iterative approach, testing and refining key components—including learning outcomes, scripts and full module drafts—across three phases. Feedback from service providers, aged care workers, and affected communities informed every decision. Trauma-informed design principles guided engagement methods and testing protocols to ensure emotional safety. Accessibility and compliance were prioritised throughout, with digital design optimised for all devices and aligned with WCAG 2.0 standards.

This project has delivered lasting societal impact by improving how aged care staff and health providers work with individuals affected by forced adoption, fostering empathy, safety and accountability. It enables long-term cultural change throughout Australia, with scalable, cost-effective training that reduces harm and supports trauma-informed practice. Designed for longevity, accessibility and broad adoption, it sets a new benchmark for ethical service design.

Trauma-Informed Design Every aspect of the course—language, structure, visuals, and interactivity—was shaped by trauma-informed principles. This ensured emotional safety, minimised risk of re-traumatisation, and promoted empowerment and agency for all learners. Co-Design with Lived Experience People directly affected by forced adoption were actively involved in shaping the content, tone, and learning outcomes, bringing authenticity, emotional depth, and relevance to the training experience. Interactive and Reflective Learning The course uses a blend of storytelling, scenario-based learning, and reflection prompts to deepen understanding and encourage behavioural change, rather than passive knowledge consumption. Historical and Emotional Accuracy All content, especially animation scripts and survivor narratives, underwent rigorous review to ensure they were historically accurate and emotionally respectful—validated through iterative feedback loops with experts and affected communities. Accessibility and Inclusivity Designed to meet WCAG 2.0 accessibility standards, the course is usable across devices (mobile, tablet, desktop), ensuring broad reach and ease of use for all, including those with disabilities.