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If you have been or are currently being trafficked, you may feel like you are trapped and have no where to turn. We want you to know that you do have options, and we are here to help.
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What to do
Make a Report:
Contact an Advocate:
If you suspect that someone is being trafficked you can report the suspicion to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, the Department of Child Services for minor children, and local law enforcement.
- You can choose to report the trafficking to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. Contacting law enforcement may be the best option for your immediate safety.
- Making a report also helps you get connected with resources to help with your recovery.
Contact an Advocate:
- Cooperation with law enforcement is not a requirement for Crisis Connection Services.
- An Advocate will always be available to help you make a plan for a safe escape and help connect you with resources to further help you be successful after victimization.
If you suspect that someone is being trafficked you can report the suspicion to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, the Department of Child Services for minor children, and local law enforcement.
SAFETY planning
Your safety is our number 1 priority, and we don’t want you to do anything that will put you in danger. Here are some things to consider if you are trying to escape a trafficking situation.
After you have escaped you still need to consider your ongoing safety.
- If you are currently experiencing trafficking, the first step in safety planning is to evaluate your current risk and identify potential safety concerns. Once you have done this try to think of ways to avoid or reduce the threat of harm. If it isn’t possible to avoid potentially dangerous or risky situations, come up with a plan to respond when your safety is threatened.
- If you are unsure of your current location, start by identifying local landmarks. Look for street signs or addresses on magazines or mail.
- Prepare a bag with important documents if you have them, clothes, and anything else you may need to leave on a moment’s notice.
- Memorize important numbers in case your phone gets taken.
- When planning your escape, try to identify safe rooms in case of an altercation. Examples of an unsafe room are the kitchen (knives/sharp objects), garage (tools), and basements or bathrooms (hard surfaces, no exits).
After you have escaped you still need to consider your ongoing safety.
- Keep your home locked at all times, and even consider changing locks.
- If you have moved, only disclose your new address to someone you trust and enroll in the Address Confidentiality Program.
- Consider a Protective Order against your traffickers to prohibit them from contacting or being around you.
- Develop a special signal for friends or neighbors to know when you are in trouble.
SUPPORTING A LOVED ONE
Being knowledgeable about the signs of human trafficking is the first step in supporting a victim of trafficking. It is also important to be available and unconditionally supportive of a family or friend who has been trafficked. Some other tips include:
- Understand that healing will happen on their own time and in their own way. Don’t try to push them to open up before they are ready.
- Let go of any expectations or preconceived thoughts of what you think a victim of trafficking “should be like.”
- Provide support and empowerment.
- Believe them unconditionally.
- Validate their feelings.