A coalition of charities will host a conference this month dedicated to helping parents and caregivers navigate the challenges of parenting while healing from trauma.

The Women’s Resource Centre has announced that it has partnered with Family Centre, Shift, Simply Bloom, the Coalition for the Protection of Children and the Gina Spence Programme to host the Parenting Through Trauma Conference.

A WRC spokeswoman said: “Childhood trauma has a profound and lasting impact on emotional, cognitive and behavioural development.

“Children who have experienced trauma may face difficulties with attachment, regulation, learning and trust. For parents and caregivers, understanding these effects is essential, but just as critical is the opportunity to process their own trauma in order to respond to their children with compassion and clarity.

“This conference addresses both, offering insight into how trauma shapes a child’s development while also guiding parents through the process of healing alongside their children to build stronger, more secure relationships.”

The spokeswoman added that the social and economic challenges on the island place an even greater strain on parents.

Juanae Crockwell, executive director of the WRC, said: “Parenting is one of the most demanding and meaningful roles a person can take on, and when a parent is also carrying the weight of their own unresolved trauma, the challenges can be magnified.

“At WRC, we see first-hand how trauma impacts one’s ability to parent effectively. Many of the women and families we support are not just seeking tools for raising children; they are searching for ways to break generational cycles, rebuild trust and create homes that are safe, nurturing and healing.

“This conference is a direct response to that need. It is both a learning space and a therapeutic space, offering practical strategies, emotional support and the power of shared experience.”

The conference will feature a series of expert-led workshops focused on trauma and parenting, with opportunities for male and female caregivers to take part in gender-specific breakout sessions.

The spokeswoman said: “These sessions will allow participants to connect through shared experiences and foster a sense of community.

“The day will close with a panel discussion and final reflections. Throughout the event, all partner organisations will be present to share information about available resources and support services for families navigating trauma and parenting.

“This event is not only for those currently in crisis, but for any parent or caregiver committed to growth, healing and parenting with intention.”

Ms Crockwell added: “This conference is for anyone who believes that no matter our past, we can choose a different path forward for ourselves and for our children.”

The event is scheduled to take place between 9am and 5pm at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute on May 31, with tickets costing $20 including lunch.

• To register or learn more, call the Women’s Resource Centre on 295-3882, e-mail wrc@wrcbermuda.com or visit www.wrcbermuda.com