A concussion toolkit and e-learning course has been developed to assist those who support survivors of intimate partner violence in recognizing brain injury.

Launched in the fall of 2020, the Concussion Awareness Training Tool (CATT) for Women’s Support Workers includes a 45-minute video-based, interactive e-learning course consisting of a series of educational modules and resources, including the voice of a real survivor of violence. The course is available in both English and French. PDF resources and articles on intimate partner violence and how to employ a trauma-informed approach are also available.

This initiative was a collaboration with Supporting Survivors of Abuse and Brain Injury through Research (SOAR). SOAR is an initiative led by Dr. Paul van Donkelaar, UBC Okanagan, and Karen Mason, former executive director of the Kelowna Women’s Shelter.

“If left unrecognized and unmanaged, concussions and traumatic brain injuries can have long-term consequences,” said BCIRPU Associate Director Dr. Shelina Babul. “This new toolkit adds to our existing suite of e-learning courses and gives support workers evidence-based tools to better support survivors.”

The project was funded by Women and Gender Equality Canada and the Max Bell Foundation.

Take CATT for Women’s Support Workers