The C.A.R.E.S. Interviewing Guide (Trauma-Informed Practice for Safeguarding Professionals Working with People Affected by Coercive Control)

The C.A.R.E.S. Interviewing Guide

(Trauma-Informed Practice for Safeguarding Professionals Working with People Affected by Coercive Control)

A Practical and Ethical Guide for Interviews in Complex Situations

This guide was created to help safeguarding professionals work safely and ethically with people affected by domestic abuse and coercive control. It offers a clear, structured approach to interviews that supports safety, respect, and clear thinking.

Who is it for?

• Social workers and safeguarding professionals
• Supervisors and educators
• Therapists, advocates, and team leaders
• Those involved in training and team discussions

What’s inside?

• The C.A.R.E.S. Framework: Connect, Assess, Respond, Evaluate, Safeguard – a structured yet flexible method.
• Practical tools and checklists: To help you prepare, stay calm, and review your practice.
• Focus on Coercive Control: Treats coercive control as the central dynamic in domestic abuse, with clear ways to interview safely and supportively.
• Trauma-Informed and Person-Centred: Written in plain language and respectful of the dignity of people affected by abuse.
• Professional and Ethical: Based on real practice in social work, safeguarding, and child protection.

About the Author:

The C.A.R.E.S. Interviewing Guide was developed by the Social Work Solutions Plus Team, founded and directed by Elaine Nembhard. It draws on years of direct work, supervision, and team support.

Format: PDF

Pages: 180+

Language: Plain English,

Publisher: Social Work Solutions Plus