Partnership Works: A Regional Response to Sex Trafficking
Arathi Packiyanathan, MSW; Alicia Boothe; Joy Brown & Samantha MacNeill, RN, BScN, SANE | September 21 | 1:45-2:45 pm
Topic: Direct Service, International | Knowledge Level: Intermediate
It has been said repeatedly that the prevention and intervention work of anti-human trafficking cannot be done by one individual or organization. Thus, the Region of Peel has developed progressive strategies, protocols, and partnerships to promote more holistic responses to the matter. Sex trafficking is a prominent concern in the Region and child welfare sector. In fact, 62% of Canadian human trafficking cases originate in the Greater Toronto Area (which includes Peel Region), and the average age of victims is between 12 to 24 (Region of Peel, 2018). Given its prevalence and the need for specialized responses, the Peel Human Trafficking Service Providers Committee was created in 2015 comprising of over 40 members from the Region spanning a variety of relevant sectors: education, employment, legal, health, and social services. The goal of the committee is to reduce victimization and to offer coordinated and collaborative services that will empower and support victims/survivors. Through this, the Peel Anti-Human Sex Trafficking Strategy was created to support three pillars identified as “prevention”, “intervention”, and “exits/housing”. This strategy has since become endorsed and funded. This presentation will discuss the Region of Peel’s implemented strategy and multi-sectoral collaborations that have allowed for a more specialized, safe, and holistic response with victims/survivors, families, and communities in the Region. The presenters from the Region of Peel, Peel Children’s Aid Society, and Peel Regional Police will delve into the spaces and ways in which the Region has come together to uphold Peel’s Anti-Human Sex Trafficking Strategy.
Presentation Objectives:
· Discuss Peel Region’s 3 pillar strategy to address human trafficking
· Discuss strategies used for a community response
· Explain multi-sectoral and operational best practices to maintain synergy
· Discuss how resiliency is built, promoted, and maintained in the safety and well-being of individuals, families, and communities involved in or at risk of being involved in human trafficking