Survey on the impact of rapid response collecting after tragedies on the mental wellbeing of the record keeping workforce
Vicarious trauma and emotional wellbeing is a major risk factor for people working with archives and records. ARA pioneered work in this area. In 2017 a training needs survey of members saw 52% of those who replied request training on coping with vicarious trauma and receiving emotional support linked to issues caused by working with disturbing material. As a result of this need the ARA commissioned and published three wellbeing guides.
We subsequently identified a need to support the wellbeing of people involved with rapid response collecting after tragedies and major national and international events.
Following a tender process (full info here) we appointed consultants to carry out new research on the impact of rapid response collecting on the profession and of employers understanding of it. It will also result in improved strategies for such collecting and sustainable ways of collecting.
We will then use the research to update existing guidance for individuals and employers and deliver training. The overall purpose of this project is improved mental wellbeing for the workforce and wider benefit their employers.
As part of this work our consultants have created a survey – if this issue has affected you or colleagues, or if you have views on this that you would like to share, please complete/share this survey:
https://forms.gle/qQS6UFNx4FuNNnJP7
The survey is anonymous. For the purpose of this survey, tragedies include a wide range of sudden, unforeseen or violent events, such as mass casualty attacks, accidents and natural disasters.
The results of the survey will inform a report to the ARA, including recommendations on relevant strategies, processes, resources and training.
Your participation is voluntary. If you begin responding to the questions, you can also stop at any time. The survey will take 5-7 minutes to complete.
The survey will be active until Monday 14th October 2024.
Due to the scope of this survey, it might trigger memories of distressing past experiences collecting after a tragedy. Please exercise self-care, take breaks from it and, if necessary, exit the survey altogether.
You can also find support here:
UK:
SupportLine - Call 01708 765200
Ireland
https://www.mentalhealthireland.ie/get-support/
If you have any questions about the survey, please contact Jen Kavanagh (hello@jenkavanagh.com) or Kostas Arvanitis (kostas.arvanitis@manchester.ac.uk).