What is a trauma-informed risk assessment and how is it used?

• A. An assessment to identify financial risks in the case; not used for safety planning
• B. A general risk assessment focusing on investigators' safety during interviews
• C. An assessment that identifies safety risks to the victim and guides safety planning and resource referrals, conducted with consent and sensitivity
• D. A financial risk assessment for the case

Answer: (C)

A trauma-informed risk assessment is a survivor-centered process that identifies safety risks to the victim and uses that information to guide safety planning and connect them with appropriate services, while being conducted with consent and sensitivity to their trauma history. It focuses on imminent and ongoing danger, such as controlling or violent behavior, stalking, unsafe housing, or barriers to getting help, and translates those findings into concrete steps like emergency planning, shelter options, legal advocacy, medical care, and access to counseling or financial resources. This approach emphasizes the survivor’s autonomy, minimizes re-traumatization, and is carried out in a respectful, nonjudgmental way, ensuring the survivor remains in control of what they disclose and what actions they choose to take.