Each week we will post a summary of interesting and representative 211 calls. This week, we have a connection from Manitoba:

In November, a woman called 211 identifying herself as a victim of domestic violence. She was looking to start over but was on her own without support from family. As with all domestic violence calls, the Service Navigator first assessed the caller’s immediate safety. She asked a number of questions and once it was determined that the caller was in a safe place, she focused on the caller’s needs. Together and through a number of probing questions, the Service Navigator and the caller identified counselling, financial support and housing as the caller’s primary needs. 

The Service Navigator explored a number of resources and refined her referrals based on the callers location, demographics and preferences. Referrals were made to a shelter for women and their children who are leaving domestic violence and a resource centre that offered housing and income security programs which the caller would need. The resource centre also offers a trauma-informed program founded on traditional Indigenous values, teachings and offers holistic support to those needing help. 

The caller was encouraged to call back if she needed further supports.