Webinar: Culturally-Sensitive and Trauma-Informed Data Collection
In today’s climate, many immigrant families face heightened fears of ICE raids, deportation, and the potential for new anti-immigrant policies. For home visiting programs, this can add a challenge to the enrollment process, as families may be hesitant to provide personal information or sign up for services in general. Acknowledging these fears and understanding the barriers they create is crucial as we seek to support all families during their most vulnerable moments.
On March 6, 2025, LA Best Babies Network (LABBN) hosted a webinar for Welcome Baby Hospital Liaisons and other staff of our network’s home visiting organizations and Welcome Baby hospitals. In their presentation, LABBN’s Public Health Research Associates Kathryn Ewing and Jennifer Jimenez discussed:
- Why we are collecting sensitive personal data
- How we should approach asking families for information
- Where Hospital Liaisons and others can get support and answers to questions related to collecting sensitive data
LABBN recently created a memo in English and Spanish to help staff address immigrant families’ fears, especially when it comes to collecting demographic information. The document outlines key principles, guidelines, and best practices for supporting immigrant families.
In any sensitive discussions, remember that home visiting is based on client-centered values: confidentiality and trust, fairness and non-discrimination, respect and cultural humility. It’s also important to make sure families understand that their information is protected by federal and state privacy laws.
Home visiting programs collect personal information from families to better understand their needs and to improve services. For instance, programs use this information to ensure they’re serving families in the appropriate language. Some sensitive information can also help home visitors identify specific resources that can help their clients. Make sure to explain this in the enrollment process.
Ensure that families fully understand the information you’ve shared, and if there’s any confusion, take the time to explain it again. Be sensitive to clients’ emotional reactions when requesting demographic information, observing their responses and adjusting your approach accordingly.
If the client appears hesitant, gently reassure them that sharing their information is optional. Prioritize building trust and making them feel safe and respected throughout the conversation. That’s what home visiting is all about.
Watch the webinar recording here, and see links to related resources below:
Related Resources: