Trauma-Informed Approach in the Carceral System

Authors

• Katherine Means, Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities
• Adrienne Jackson, Virginia Department of Social Services
• Tayia West, Richmond City Council
• Kenneth Hunter, Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy

Document Type

Article

Original Publication Date

2026

Comments

A digitally accessible version of this file that conforms to WCAG 2.1 Level AA accessibility standards is available for download.

Date of Submission

April 2026

Abstract

This proposal seeks to establish a foundation to drive the development of a comprehensive, trauma-informed framework for Virginia Department of Corrections by identifying opportunities and recommendations for implementation.

This proposal aims to improve VADOC’s adherence to a true structure of rehabilitation, leading to the adoption of a statewide trauma-informed corrections statute.

Is Part Of

VCU Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute Publications