If you feel someone would benefit from connecting with our team, with their consent, we are ready to facilitate that process. We use a warm-handoff system to ensure a smooth transition and connection!
Warm handoffs, whether in-person or virtual, play a critical role in creating a supportive and effective environment for survivors of sexual violence, facilitating their access to the necessary resources and care.
What is a warm handoff?
A warm handoff, in the context of supporting survivors of sexual violence, is a process in which one service provider or staff member personally introduces a survivor to another service provider or resource. This introduction is often done in person, but a virtual warm handoff can also be facilitated through video calls, phone calls, or secure online communication platforms. The key aspect of a warm handoff is the direct and personal connection made between the survivor and the new service provider, ensuring continuity of care and building trust.
The importance of warm handoffs
A warm handoff helps to establish trust and comfort by providing a seamless transition between service providers. This can be crucial for survivors who may feel vulnerable and anxious about seeking help from multiple sources.
Survivors often have to repeat their stories multiple times, which can be re-traumatizing. A warm handoff can minimize this need by ensuring the new service provider is already briefed on the survivor’s situation (with the survivor’s consent), thus reducing the emotional burden on the survivor.
By directly connecting the survivor with the next resource or support service, the likelihood of follow-through increases. Survivors are more likely to engage with the services if they feel supported and personally introduced.
A warm handoff shows the survivor that their well-being is a priority and that the staff is committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate care. This can significantly enhance the survivor’s overall experience and encourage them to utilize available resources.
Virtual Warm Handoff
In a virtual context, a warm handoff might involve scheduling a video call or a three-way phone call where the initial service provider introduces the survivor to the new service provider. It could also include sending a personalized email or message to the new provider with the survivor included, explaining the situation and the survivor’s needs. If you’re looking to do a virtual hand-off with our team, please email us at svsec@brocku.ca.
