Trauma-Informed Care in Residential Care for Children At-Risk: Preliminary Evidence of Effectiveness

Abstract

The RESTORE Project in Hong Kong residential childcare services aims to enhance the implementation of trauma-informed care (TIC) in residential care, to create more supportive environments for children with histories of trauma. This study presents preliminary findings on the effectiveness of the RESTORE Project. Using a mixed-method approach, the study evaluates the project’s three core programs—Boost, Care Journey, and Life Coach—evidenced by improvements in peer problems, positive youth development, and psychosocial health, alongside enhanced quality of life. A total of 34 residents were recruited (intervention group = 23, comparison group = 11), all of whom completed baseline and follow-up surveys from 2021 to 2024. A quasi-experimental design assessed the effectiveness of the TIC intervention. Qualitative data were gathered through interviews and focus group discussions with social workers and residents from the intervention group. The findings indicate that the intervention group reported fewer experiences of child abuse and family violence; more reductions in depression, anxiety, and stress; more improvements in future orientations, readiness, and perceived strength in terms of independent living; and higher levels of knowledge about childhood trauma. This study underscores the need for targeted TIC interventions involving multi-disciplinary collaboration to address the complex needs of at-risk children in residential care. Future practice should integrate group activities and physical exercises to maximize the impact of TIC interventions.