Manaaki Tāngata | Victim Support

Document name

Coping with trauma

Judges’ comments

The writers successfully transformed two lengthy guides into a single, focused leaflet. This turnaround puts the reader at the centre. By simplifying the content and removing extra detail, the new version is easier for someone in distress to absorb.

The guide is logically structured with clear headings, short paragraphs, and bullet points. This design allows readers to scan for information quickly, even when feeling overwhelmed. Sentences are short and direct, and the everyday words make the content relatable and easy to understand.

A warm, compassionate, and reassuring tone helps to build trust and comfort the reader. The clean, uncluttered layout is also visually engaging without being overwhelming. The judges noted the guide was tested with experts, staff, and focus groups, ensuring the final version is accurate, relevant, and helpful.

Media statement

We’re excited to be a finalist for the Best Plain Language Turnaround at the 2025 Plain Language Awards for our resource Coping with Trauma.

We created this resource to replace a wordy, outdated version that was long and hard to process, especially for people who may be feeling overwhelmed. The new version was completely reworked to be clear, compassionate, and trauma-informed. Thoughtfully designed, it’s a document that’s both informative and empowering.

Coping with Trauma supports people affected by crime or traumatic events by helping them understand their responses to trauma and offer simple, practical ways to cope. It aims to normalise common reactions, reduce distress, and provide a gentle guide on what to do next.

It now uses everyday language, short sentences, and clear design to make it comforting as well as informative.

The transformation has made the resource easier to navigate and more inclusive, helping people and their whānau find comfort and guidance when it’s needed most.

Being a finalist acknowledges our ongoing commitment to communicating with care, respect, and clarity for everyone affected by crime or traumatic events. We’re exceptionally proud that this work has been recognised.

Kalimar Edivy-James
GM Fundraising and Communications
Manaaki Tāngata | Victim Support