Trauma is recognised as the psychological and emotional damage from a life threatening event. Trauma informed assessment is important in healthcare to understand the history of trauma for children and families and how this has impacted upon their psychosocial functioning and resilience. An understanding of trauma can problem more appropriate support, therapeutic interventions and referrals for each member of the family. Trauma informed care then involves core principles of establishing safety, trust, choice, collaboration, empowerment and respect for diversity.