National Survivor Study Findings and Resources

The National Survivor Study (NSS) aims to put survivor experience and expertise squarely at the center of our work building evidence-based strategies in the fight against human trafficking. The NSS is envisioned as both a model of survivor empowerment and a tool for evidenced-based strategies and approaches to anti-trafficking work. The NSS aims to inform the anti-trafficking movement more broadly by filling key evidence gaps that exist in the field in full partnership with survivors. 

 

Data for Action

Findings from Surveys

Handout on Survivor Economic Stability and Financial Access

This brief provides analysis of data created for the Survivor Financial Access Roundtable, which was co-hosted by Polaris and Finance Against Slavery and Trafficking. This analysis is focused on survivor’s economic stability after their exploitation ended and their access to financial systems.

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Survey Instrument Summary

A breakdown and overview of the sections of the NSS survey including how many questions are in each section and what each section focuses on. This instrument was developed with leadership and participation of survivors.

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Findings from Survivor Discussions

Meaningful Engagement in Research

Preliminary findings from formative group and individual discussions about how survivors would want to be involved in research.

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Service Access Challenges for Survivors

Preliminary findings from formative group and individual discussions on the types of challenges that survivors encounter in trying to access services.

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Immigration Challenges for Survivors 

Preliminary findings from formative group and individual discussions on the challenges that survivors encounter as a result of  their immigration status.

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Policy Priorities

Preliminary findings from formative group and individual discussions on the topics that are policy priorities for survivors.

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Criminalization of Survivors

Preliminary findings from formative group and individual discussions on survivors’ experiences and needs concerning criminalization related to their trafficking victimization. 

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Child Related Challenges Survivors Face

Preliminary findings from formative group and individual discussions on challenges survivors face related to custody of children, involvement of family courts and child welfare system, and access to childcare.

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Developing the National Survivor Study

Engaging Anti-Trafficking Partners in the Development of the NSS

We utilized a consensus building method (Delphi technique) to determine the focus of the study through multiple rounds of surveys with anti-trafficking stakeholders including survivor leaders.

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Milestones on a Learning Journey

Reflections and lessons learned from the NSS project team on trying to implement a community engaged, survivor centered study.

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Condensed Research Protocol

An overview of the background, design, and plan of the NSS, approved by an institutional review board (IRB) charged with ensuring the protection of human subjects in research.

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Need help? Polaris operates the U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline.