Do You See My Trauma? - The lived realities of minority ethnic individuals

This report, Do You See My Trauma?, explores the lived experiences of racial trauma among minority ethnic individuals across Wales. Conducted by EYST Wales with support from ACE Hub Wales and the University of South Wales, the study gathered qualitative data from 147 participants, including refugees, asylum seekers, and British ethnic minorities.

Findings reveal widespread racism and discrimination across health, education, policing, and public life, resulting in deep psychological, physical, and social harm. Participants described mistrust of institutions, isolation, and barriers to accessing support due to language, fear, and cultural misunderstanding. The report identifies major service gaps — particularly the lack of culturally competent, trauma-informed care — and calls for systemic change to ensure equality, dignity, and safety for minority communities.

Recommendations include mandatory anti-racism and trauma-awareness training, inclusive reporting systems, better representation in public services, and co-production with community organisations. The report concludes that addressing racial trauma is essential to achieving an anti-racist and trauma-informed Wales.