Workforce Development Branch

The Workforce Development Branch focuses on how learning is shared to promote trauma-informed cultures in organisations and workplaces. It reflects the Network’s commitment to creating psychologically safer spaces, challenging power imbalances, reducing jargon, and empowering through transparency, innovation, and reflection.

“Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health; safe connections are fundamental to meaningful and satisfying lives.”

– Dr Bessel Van Der Kolk

Read our Working Together Guide

Building Trauma-Informed Workplaces

The Workforce Development Branch supports the wider Network on training and workforce development that deepens understanding of trauma-informed and shame-sensitive practice. Acting as the advisory group—including lived experience—for the Trauma Informed Plymouth Network and its CIC directors, the branch supports funding sustainability, oversees training, and ensures alignment with the Network’s vision, values, and code of ethics.

We co-produce learning materials, explore trauma-informed supervision and staff support, and work in partnership with organisations such as the Plymouth Alliance to empower workforces and build psychologically safer, more compassionate workplaces.

Smiling woman with long dark hair, wearing a patterned top and burgundy scarf, photographed outdoors against a stone wall.

Branch Lead: Deborah Atter

Hi, I’m Deborah. My work has always centred on helping people recognise their own potential, especially at times when they can’t see it themselves and may have no one else to remind them.

With over two decades in statutory and VCSE services, I’ve walked alongside people facing some of life’s toughest challenges, through delivering employability programmes, wellbeing and recovery-focused training as well as managing teams, I’ve been privileged to see the power of having a shared purpose, peer support, choice, and human-first approaches and how they can create real and lasting change.

As a co-lead of this branch, I’m excited and curious about how we can shape compassionate, person centred workplaces, where everyone can thrive and bring their whole selves.

Outside of work, you’ll either find me by the sea along the South Devon coast or enjoying nature with my elderly and wobbly dog, a small but mighty mascot of hopefulness.

Smiling person wearing a black knit hat and blue scarf, photographed outdoors at night on a city street.

Branch Lead: Mary Coles

Hi, I’m Mary. I enjoy taking on challenges which can appear unattainable. Completing the London Classics (London Marathon, 100-mile Ride London, and 2-mile Serpentine swim) is one of my greatest achievements, especially as, at school, I was in the bottom set for PE.

What got me across the finishing line was the support of others; challenges of endurance are enhanced through teamwork.

I enjoy grasping opportunities achieved through partnership working, especially when this involves a diverse network of people. My career has included working for a Students’ Union and for a partnership of universities, schools, and colleges supporting those from underserved communities to progress in education.

I am currently the workforce development coordinator for the Plymouth Alliance.

Become a branch member!

* Note that by becoming a branch member you will also become a member of the

Trauma Network, and therefore may occasionally receive Network wide communications.




Join our movement for change

Our ambition is for Plymouth to be a trauma-informed city. Our independent network is open to anyone connected with Plymouth with a desire to learn about and promote trauma informed ways of being. You too can join our Network and help Plymouth become a safer and kinder place, where the impact of trauma and adversity is both recognised and responded to with sensitivity and compassion.

Become a member