By Donald Ritchie
Alicia Leigh, author of The trauma-informed writer, delivered a thought-provoking presentation on 13 November, offering editors a clear framework for working sensitively with manuscripts that involve trauma. She outlined the core principles of trauma-informed practice – sensitivity, accuracy, knowledge and empowerment – and emphasised that understanding what trauma is, and is not, is essential for ethical editorial work.
A central theme of the presentation was avoiding exploitation. Leigh cautioned against using trauma as a plot device or for shock value, urging editors to guide writers toward authentic, character-centred storytelling and to include elements of hope rather than “easy cure” endings.
She also highlighted the importance of care for editors, writers and readers, encouraging boundaries, self-awareness and the use of sensitivity readers when needed. Leigh helpfully provided quick, practical tips that form a compact “first-aid kit” for anyone editing trauma-related content.