Anchor is a home visitation programme to support Singaporean children aged 0 –3 years who have experienced early childhood maltreatment and disrupted attachments. The programme is delivered by Home Visitors who work primarily with these caregivers and their children to support the child’s well-being, strengthen the caregiver-child dyad, and promote caregiver mental wellness. These families often face adverse situations ranging from domestic violence, poverty and mental health concerns. Home Visitors in turn experience distress through their work with these families that can lead to secondary traumatic stress (STS). STS arises when professionals are indirectly exposed to the trauma experienced by the families they serve and can manifest in several forms. Research indicates that nearly 30% of individuals working in trauma-related fields may experience STS, which can impair their ability to function effectively in both personal and professional domains. 

Two case studies provide an overview of Anchor’s Home Visitors’ work with caregivers experiencing psychological abuse and mental health concerns, and how these interactions manifest in different forms of STS. These cases will showcase the impact and effects of STS on Anchor Home Visitors, such as the toll on their mental health, possible effects on their physical health, as well as their struggles between empathetic engagement and self-preservation. 

Anchor incorporates the use of reflective supervision as an important support mechanism for Home Visitors to reduce the impact of STS. The safe and supportive environment provided allows them to process their feelings, gain insights into their emotional responses and develop coping strategies to counter STS. An overview of this collaborative and introspective process between supervisors and Home Visitors will be explored. The value of organizational support in prioritising reflective practices and improving risk reduction protocols will also be presented in the work to mitigate STS and improve outcomes for the families under Anchor.