Section 3401 - Principles for Vermont's trauma-informed system of careThe General Assembly adopts the following principles with regard to strengthening Vermont's response to trauma and toxic stress during childhood:
(1) Childhood trauma affects all aspects of society. Each of Vermont's systems addressing trauma, particularly social services; health care, including mental health; education; child care; and the justice system, shall collaborate to address the causes and symptoms of childhood trauma and to build resilience.(2) Addressing trauma in Vermont requires building resilience in those individuals already affected and preventing childhood trauma within the next generation.(3) Early childhood adversity is common and can be prevented. When adversity is not prevented, early intervention is essential to ameliorate the impacts of adversity. A statewide, community-based, interconnected, public health and social service approach is necessary to address this effectively. This model shall include training for local leaders to facilitate a cultural change around the prevention and treatment of childhood trauma.(4) Service systems shall be integrated at the local and regional levels to maximize resources and simplify how systems respond to individual and family needs. All programs and services shall be evidence-informed and research-based, adhering to best practices in addressing trauma and promoting resilience.Added 2017 , No. 43, § 2.