Description

The foster care system and human trafficking often intersect due to the overlapping vulnerabilities faced by children in out-of-home care. Between 50% and 90% of child trafficking victims have had some involvement with the child welfare system. Understanding the intersection of trauma, foster care, and human trafficking is key to prevention and protective steps. This workshop will provide information to recognize indicators as well as to mitigate and respond effectively to risks. Why are these children and youth particularly vulnerable? What are enhanced risk factors?  And what pragmatic preventive and protective measures can social workers and care providers implement to improve outcomes, safety, and stability for system-involved children and youth.

Training Objectives:

Trauma-Informed Approach: Understanding that youth with prior sexual abuse or instability are more vulnerable, and that care must be nurturing and non-retraumatizing.

Recognizing Grooming Tactics: Training to spot when traffickers use fake affection or financial promises to exploit a youth's need for connection or stability.

Screening and Identification: Learning the specific indicators of trafficking, such as unexplained gifts, sudden change in behavior, habitual runaways, or signs of control by an older person.

Reporting Protocols: Knowing how to report suspected cases to the appropriate authorities and how to respond appropriately.