BACKGROUND:
One in four women has experienced trauma such as sexual abuse or violence, with profound implications for mental and physical health, particularly during the perinatal period. However, many women are reluctant to disclose their experiences due to stigma, fear of judgment, or lack of trust in healthcare systems.

OBJECTIVES:
The EMPATHY framework was designed to address these challenges and provide a safe, evidence-based approach to routine trauma discussions in maternity settings.

METHODS:
The framework was developed using a critical participatory action research approach, integrating findings from a systematic review, interviews, and stakeholder input, including experts by experience, healthcare professionals, and voluntary sector practitioners. It was refined through workshops and a public consultation (n=52), and guided by the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II) tool to ensure quality and rigor.

RESULTS:
The framework is structured around six core principles: system-wide change, empowerment, sensitivity and trust, training and support, local adaptation, and continuous improvement. A key innovation is the recommendation that all women, regardless of disclosure, should have access to information and support. Feedback highlighted the framework’s potential to improve care experiences, while recognising implementation challenges such as resourcing and training needs.

CONCLUSIONS:
The EMPATHY framework offers a practical, trauma-informed approach to trauma discussions in maternity care. It aims to empower women, improve staff confidence, and reduce the risk of re-traumatisation, representing a meaningful step forward in improving perinatal experiences for women affected by trauma.

KEY MESSAGE:
This research offers an important evidence-based framework for conducting trauma conversations. The next step is to implement and evaluate the framework in practice and seek to integrate the framework into national guidance. Poster session 4 (Group B)