Service Provider Resources

Providing Services

Generally speaking, the same principles apply to providing services to incarcerated survivors and survivors in the community. Yet working with incarcerated people presents additional challenges. People in detention lack privacy, have limited access to phones, and often seek help through letters. In this section you will find resources and information on how best to provide services to incarcerated survivors in various contexts.

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Incarcerated survivors have the right to a forensic medical exam following an assault, just like survivors in the community. An advocate can play a critical role in ensuring that these exams are performed in a trauma-informed and survivor-centered way. They can also support survivors during sexual abuse investigations.

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Letter-writing is a crucial form of communication for incarcerated people. Written correspondence with an outside advocate is often the safest way for survivors to talk about what has happened to them and to receive help. In addition, letters from an advocate can be a source of strength and comfort in times of crisis.

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Hotline calls are an important service for survivors behind bars, just like they are for survivors in the community. But incarcerated people face barriers to accessing these phone services, specifically when it comes to confidentiality and privacy. It is important for advocates to familiarize themselves with these differences in order to best support the survivor they are speaking with.

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Advocates can provide a range of in-person services in detention settings. In addition to figuring out what type of services are most useful, there are many additional hoops to jump through when it comes to facilitating a program or service in a detention facility. It is critical for advocates to familiarize themselves with the various issues around logistics and accessibility of providing in-person services to incarcerated survivors.

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