BMC Psychiatry

We might already know for example that a parent has their own history of ACEs or perhaps we have concerns about domestic abuse or the difficulties within the family.

Because early intervention can make a real difference and there's some encouraging evidence that if a child is able to develop a strong relationship with a trusted adult This can reduce the long-term negative impacts of childhood adversity, and that's from BMC Psychiatry in 2017.

So, as clinicians, we should stay ACE-aware, recognise when a child or family may be vulnerable, and signpost or refer for additional support.

And that might include following safeguarding pathways if we have particular concerns about current ACEs affecting a child.