For organizations that support trauma survivors, Pickup Communications fills a critical gap in services: supporting survivors in sharing their traumatic story. Photos courtesy of Bolo Program (left and right) and Global News (centre).
Consulting
From explaining their rights and how the media operates, to guiding them through a host of options for engaging (or choosing not to engage) with the media, Tamara offers critical agency to survivors who are forced to suffer on the public stage, ensuring the media coverage of their traumatic event is as beneficial for them as possible. After determining the “safe” and “unsafe” areas of discussion, Tamara can act as a liaison between survivors and members of the media, setting boundaries and mitigating harm that can come from interactions with reporters who are well-intentioned, but not trauma-informed. Wraparound support before, during and after interactions (or lack thereof) create an environment for survivors to take control of their narrative in a way that is helpful, instead of harmful.
Statement Writing
Whether releasing a written statement or reading from prepared notes at a news conference, the writing process begins with a trauma-informed conversation between Tamara and the survivor, who can then offer as much or as little input as they would like during the writing and editing process. For those survivors who choose to participate in a news conference or sit-down interview, Tamara can prepare a list of anticipated questions and answers, then coach the survivor on what they can expect.
Recorded Interviews
Some survivors want to share their voices, but by virtue of their trauma responses and/or privacy concerns, are uncomfortable with the unpredictable circumstances that can accompany media interactions. These survivors may wish to do a one-on-one recorded interview with Tamara in person or over Zoom, which can then be released to the media in full, or in edited portions.
Multimedia Production
Tamara can prepare photos and/or videos that survivors would like distributed. She can also create content specifically tailored to social media, news releases, and other platforms, all in consultation with survivors and relevant stakeholders.
“Every single family who deals with a loss like this deserves someone like Tamara. With her services the information is not only more accurate but it lessens the trauma the family experiences. Her services were life changing for us.”
“Tamara ensures that victims know what to expect from the media coverage, listens to their concerns, and actively supports them in participating in whatever ways they are comfortable. From written statements to compelling videos, Tamara has created a novel, trauma-informed approach to giving victims a voice.”
“Beyond media training, Tamara is an invaluable resource for communications support through traumatic incidents. Her guidance, knowledge, and compassion have lightened the load during our darkest days.”