SPACE matters

Supporting People with Adverse Childhood Experiences (SPACE) matters is a collaborative project across Kent and Medway to prevent and reduce the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).

Our vision is to support trauma informed working across a wide range of professional settings and services.

Adverse childhood experiences

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are some of the most intense, and frequently experienced, sources of stress that children may suffer early in life. They include multiple types of abuse including:

• neglect
• violence between parents or caregivers
• alcohol and substance abuse
• peer, community and collective violence.

Global research consistently shows an association between multiple ACEs and health harming behaviours, physical and mental health in adulthood. The strongest associations are seen between violence perpetration and victimisation, mental ill-health and substance misuse.

Poor outcomes are not inevitable.

Early intervention, particularly in childhood, can make a difference.

We all must show understanding to those who may have suffered ACEs, helping explore through our work the question; “What happened to you, and what may help you?”

Resources, events and training

If you are supporting people with ACEs, or want to know more about the field, you can find newsletters, events, training opportunities and more on our SPACE resources page.