The anti-human trafficking collaboration model and serving victims: Providers’ perspectives on the impact and experience

ABSTRACT

Purpose. A coalition model is often used to serve victims of human trafficking but little is known about whether the model is adequately meeting the needs of the victims. The purpose of this study was to examine anti-human trafficking collaboration model in terms of its impact and the collaborative experience, including challenges and lessons learned from the service providers’ perspective. Method. Mixed methods study was conducted to evaluate the impact of a citywide anti-trafficking coalition model from the providers’ perspectives. Web-based survey was administered with service providers (n = 32) and focus groups were conducted with Core Group members (n = 10). Results. Providers reported the coalition model has made important impacts in the community by increasing coordination among the key agencies, law enforcement, and service providers and improving quality of service provision. Providers identified the improved and expanded partnerships among coalition members as the key contributing factor to the success of the coalition model. Discussion. Several key strategies were suggested to improve the coalition model: improved referral tracking, key partner and protocol development, and information sharing.

KEYWORDS:

• Coalition model
• evaluation of collaboration
• human trafficking victim services