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Incorporate requests for lived experience workers during intake processes

Proposal Summary

Victim-survivors seeking specialist sexual violence support may benefit from the ability to request a counsellor-advocate who has lived experience during the intake process.

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At its core, the specialist sexual violence support sector adopts a 'rights advocacy' model of service. A key component of this approach is ensuring victim-survivors are given control and choice over the processes they engage in. This extends to specialist counselling. Incorporating requests for a lived experience counsellor-advocate during the intake process actively gives victim-survivors a choice about who they want to engage with for support. While this may not be suitable for all victim-survivors, having the option to choose may assist others in feeling more prepared before engaging in the counselling process, and promote safety, understanding, and recognition while in-session. 

• Specialist support approaches