Human Trafficking Understanding Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is a serious crime that involves recruiting, controlling, or coercing a person for the purpose of exploitation. This can include sexual exploitation, forced labour, domestic servitude, or other forms of abuse.
Trafficking affects people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. It can happen in any community—urban or rural—and often goes unnoticed.
People may be trafficked through:
- Lies about work, safety, or relationships
- Threats, violence, or manipulation
- Isolation or control of money, ID, or movement
Traffickers often target individuals who are vulnerable due to age, poverty, social isolation, housing insecurity, or past trauma—but anyone can be at risk.
How Victim Services Can Help
Victim Services staff are trained to support individuals who are at risk of or have experienced human trafficking. Services are confidential, nonjudgmental, and prioritize safety, trust, and survivor autonomy.
Support may include:
- Crisis support and exit planning
- Safe transportation and emergency shelter
- Support accessing medical care, legal aid, and trauma counselling
- Assistance with police involvement or navigating the justice system
- Help connecting with long-term recovery and housing programs
- Financial assistance through VQRP+ in eligible cases
Victim Services often work closely with anti-trafficking partners to provide wraparound support.
