Our P.A.C.E. Therapeutic Approach
Trauma-informed care grounded in Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, and Empathy.
Young people who have experienced trauma, loss, or disrupted attachments often communicate distress through their behaviour. They may withdraw, escalate, push back, or shut down. These are not signs of defiance. They are signs of an unmet need or a feeling that has nowhere else to go.
At Hub Haven Ltd, we look beneath behaviour to understand what is being communicated. Our response is built on the P.A.C.E. model developed by Dr Dan Hughes, which is widely recognised in therapeutic and attachment-aware practice.
* The four pillars of P.A.C.E. *
Playfulness
Light, warm moments matter. Playfulness builds connection, lowers defences, and reminds young people that they are safe and enjoyed. It does not mean making light of distress; it means making space for joy, humour, and ease alongside the harder work.
Acceptance
We accept the young person as they are. We do not require them to be grateful, regulated, or ready before we offer care. Acceptance is not the same as approval of every behaviour; it is the steady recognition that the young person is worthy of care regardless of how they present.
Curiosity
We stay curious rather than judgemental. We wonder out loud about what might be happening for the young person, what they might be feeling, and what they might need. Curiosity gives the young person space to be understood, often before they have the words to explain themselves.
Empathy
We meet feelings with empathy. We do not rush to fix, minimise, or move on. We sit alongside, name what we see, and let the young person know they are not alone in how they feel. Empathy regulates the nervous system in a way that words alone cannot.
*How P.A.C.E. works in practice
- Staff are trained in P.A.C.E. as part of induction and refresh it through supervision and reflective practice
- Daily interactions, key work, and routines are shaped by the four pillars
- Incidents are debriefed through a P.A.C.E. lens, focusing on understanding rather than blame
- Staff model emotional regulation and repair after rupture
What this means for restraint and sanctions
Because we approach behaviour relationally, the need for physical intervention is rare. Physical intervention is a last resort, used only to prevent harm to the young person or others. When it does happen, it is carried out by trained staff and is followed by debrief, recording, management review, and learning.
Sanctions are proportionate, restorative, and agreed in advance with the young person where possible. Sanctions are designed to support reflection and repair, not to punish.
Referral and Partnership?
We are always happy to talk through how our home model could suit a young person you are placing. To discuss a referral, contact Rebecca Saunders (Director) on enquiries@hubhaven.co.uk or 07878 843579.