WDRC Launches New Program: Safe Spaces

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The WDRC is pleased to announce the launch of the Safe Spaces program! This program provides a place to be heard - an alternative access point for community members who feel unable, unwilling, or previously unsuccessful in bringing their complaint directly to City of Bellingham departments.

The Safe Spaces program is a supplement to (but not replacement of) existing complaint programs, as an accessible, neutral, intake service. The program receives, honors, documents and refers community members’ concerns to the City. Translation services are available, and complainants may opt to remain anonymous. 

An idea born in 2018, the City recognized that an alternative avenue would help ensure that all community members could have a “safe space” to submit complaints. The City reached out to the WDRC for assistance in researching the need & developing this program. 

Consequently, the WDRC conducted extensive interviews with community members and City leaders to understand:

  • perspectives about the City’s current complaint process;

  • perspectives about the City’s role and responsibility in creating a safe space for community complaints;

  • desired elements of this supplemental complaint process;

  • best practice of similar programs in other cities.

After a thoughtful design process incorporating what we learned, we developed a structure for the Safe Spaces Program. We softly rolled out the program in June to assess and refine policies and procedures, and are now conducting a broader outreach effort to educate more of the community about this program. 

If you or someone you know is interested in learning more, accessing this program, or scheduling a virtual presentation for a local group, please contact the Program Coordinator, Britt Sullateskee via: 

Phone: at 360.676.0122 ext. 123  or

Email: safespaces@whatcomdrc.org

Click here to view our Safe Spaces infographic with more information

Click here to view our Safe Spaces infographic in Spanish

For more information visit:  https://www.whatcomdrc.org/safespacesproject 

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