Why Individualized Service Provision is Crucial for Long Term Success
Helen L. Stiver, BA | September 18 | 3:15-4:15 pm EDT
Topic: Direct Service | Knowledge Level: Intermediate
Although the prevalence of trafficking and its harmful impacts have been thoroughly studied, there remains a significant lack of understanding as to which programs and interventions are effective. Additionally, as the anti-trafficking movement evolves, it faces critical questions: What are the most essential needs of each survivor? How can organizations effectively measure impact on the outcomes that truly matter? What strategies should policymakers and funders prioritize to reduce vulnerability to trafficking? These are pivotal issues that must be addressed to create lasting change in the lives of survivors. This presentation will draw on several sources and include survivor perspectives derived from The National Survivor Study conducted by Polaris, published 2023 - In Harms Way: How Systems Fail Human Trafficking Survivors. This report states, “a passive role in data collection skews power dynamics and leaves survivors without control over what story the data tells and how it is used. More evidence is urgently needed to fill these data gaps and build effective programs and policies.” Also included will be key learnings from Everfree’s work, including trauma-informed approaches and survivor-centered care models, demonstrating how collaboration and data sharing across sectors can improve service coordination and effectiveness, while emphasizing the importance of lived-experience expertise in shaping best practices. Utilizing the data and responses from both resources, this presentation will demonstrate the importance of survivor informed and individualized service provision.
Presentation Objectives:
• Present the latest data trends in survivor needs and gaps identified in current service provision models
• Discuss the role of technology in scaling solutions and improving long-term outcomes for survivors
• Discuss the importance of lived-experience expertise in shaping best practices for long term survivor success