Many of us are close to someone who has experienced a traumatic event in their lives. Or perhaps we have been traumatised ourselves.

Through its structured self-help trauma programmes, the Wider Circle seeks to restore a sense of hope in the lives of people who have suffered a trauma. Traumatic experiences can range from a serious car accident to abuse and, of course, as a result of the conflict in Northen Ireland. A traumatic event can be anything where someone suffers a severe shock.

Many traumatised people experience disturbed memories, feelings of isolation and helplessness. Through its Trauma Programmes the Wider Circle provides a supportive and safe environment where people can deal with frightening emotions and experiences. They can share their stories and their problems and know that they are not alone in their suffering. They are encouraged to accept their trauma as something that happened in the past, rather than something they have to live with all the time.

The Wider Circle Trauma Programmes are free of charge, and are available both to those who have suffered a trauma and to those who care for traumatised individuals. Sessions focus on sharing traumatic experiences through a process of story telling in a supportive and confidential small group atmosphere.

The next Trauma Programme will be available in the Armagh Diocesan Pastoral Centre is September 2008.

For more information contact the This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , +353 42 933 6393.