Hotline Advocacy

BEGINING A CALL:

1. Confirm caller’s identity”

   • “Hi is this ___________________?”

2. Introduce yourself once identity is confirmed:

   • “Hi ________________, my name is Allyson. I’m calling from Northwest CASA.”

3. Confirm caller’s safety:

   • “Is now a good time to talk?”

   • “Is now still a safe time to talk?”

4. Address confidentiality:

   • “Thank you for letting me know that now is a good time to talk. I want to let you know that everything we talk about today will be confidential.”

     • “I’m here to listen when you are ready to talk.”

     • “Do you want to tell me why you called today?”

     • “The hotline said you were feeling _________________. Do you want to talk about why you are feeling this way?”

     • “How can I help you today?”

SAFETY PLANNING:

• If a survivor feels unsafe, talk about options!

  • Do they feel safe in their home?

    • Is there somewhere else they can stay?

    • Will checking doors & windows be helpful?

    • Offer calling 911 as an option.

  • Do they need shelter options?

    • Homelessness

    • Domestic Violence

    • Teen Shelter Options

  • Do they feel comfortable calling 911? Who else can they call to feel safe?

    • Do they have a friend or family member they can call?

  • Are they suicidal?

    • Do they have a plan that is realistic?

    • Are they willing to call 911 or go to the hospital?

    • Check out Suicide Resources under Community Resources & Training Tab