Referrals Make a Difference

We can't be all things to all people, so we have to rely on referrals to other community agencies and providers to help meet the needs of clients and others who call upon us.  The quality of the referral process may have a direct impact on survivors' experiences and the perception of the services your agency provides. 

1.  Resource lists are only useful if they are up-to-date and as accurate as possible.

2.  The need to update resource lists is a good door-opener for getting in-depth information about community services.   

3.  A call or a visit to an agency to get updated resource information may lead to collaboration among service providers.

4.  It helps to get to know specific contact people and their roles, for your sake and that of your agency's clients.

5.  Remember that people in crisis may not be functioning at their best and may need help accessing referral resources.

6.  Feedback about referrals may be used to identify gaps in service in your community.

7.  Provide opportunities for staff members to share resource information. 

These are some quick points about the referral process; for an expanded version of this Tip called "Ten Ways to Provide High-Quality Resources and Referrals". The article includes more information and examples.