Modern slavery - how you can make a difference

Last year, the number of  victims in the UK hit a record high, with more than 10,000 potential victims of trafficking, slavery and forced labour identified - men, women and children.

But it’s feared that this is only the tip of the iceberg, and that there may be as many as 136,000 modern slavery victims in the UK, according to a 2018 survey by the Walk Free Foundation.
 

What is modern slavery?

It's the exploitation of other people, against their will, for personal or commercial gain.

Often the person is forced or compelled to work and they are often controlled by an 'employer', usually through mental or physical abuse or the threat of abuse, both to them and their families.

It takes a number of forms, including sexual exploitation, forced labour, domestic servitude and criminal exploitation, and involves psychological, physical and emotional abuse.

It can happen to men, women or children of any age, and it’s believed to be significantly under-reported, despite often happening in plain sight in public places. Victims are vulnerable and may not actually know they are being exploited.

That's why, with our new #SlaveryonYourDoorstep campaign, we're asking for your help to spot these victims and tell us about them, 100% anonymously, so that the necessary support can be provided by specialist agencies, and action is taken against the criminals involved.
 

Report modern slavery 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or click here.

Watch out for #SlaveryonYourDoorstep on our social media channels - follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

The effect of Covid-19, lockdown, and its easing

Due to the hidden nature of this crime type, the number of victims being reported during lockdown has been low - however, as restrictions are relaxed and businesses, shops and factories reopen, we are likely to see a resurgence in this under-reported crime as the victims become more visible to the general public.

The criminal gangs behind modern slavery move victims to areas where there is demand. For example, the desperate need for agricultural labourers due to Covid-19 has seen an increase in modern slaves being exploited in this sector. Indeed, in May, a group of Romanian fruit pickers were saved in Medway, Kent as police investigated modern slavery and human trafficking offences.
 

What can I do?

We can all help end modern slavery by being aware of what to look, for instance the next time you go to a car wash site or a nail bar.

This crime also goes on in agriculture, construction, catering, the care sector, contract cleaning, hotels and hospitality, and in fishing, as well as being widespread within the sex industry.

Signs that someone might be a victim of modern slavery include:

• Showing signs of injury, abuse and malnourishment
• They look unkempt, are often in the same clothing and have poor hygiene
• Appearing to be under the control and influence of others
• Living in cramped, dirty, overcrowded accommodation
• They have no access or control of their passport or identity documents
• Appearing scared, avoiding eye contact, and being untrusting
• They may allow others to speak for them when addressed directly, rather than speak for themselves.
• They’re collected very early and/or returned late at night on a regular basis
• May have inappropriate clothing for the work they are performing, and/or a lack of safety equipment
• May be isolated from the local community and their family
• They travel only with other workers

We know that it can feel awkward or a bit embarrassing when you suspect but are not absolutely certain that modern slavery is happening. Its hidden nature makes it more difficult to spot. But sometimes, you’ll have a hunch that something is just not right. That’s when you can pass on what you suspect without giving any personal details, thanks to Crimestoppers’ anonymity guarantee.

Your information could help free victims from danger and ensure they receive the support they desperately need from specialist agencies, as well as help bring those behind this heinous crime to justice.
 

Report modern slavery 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or click here. The only person who will know you got in touch with us is you.

What to do if you are a victim of modern slavery

Due to our anonymity guarantee, we can't take information from victims of crime. If you think you or someone you have come across may be a victim of modern slavery and in need of help, you can contact The Salvation Army, who provide specialist support to adult victims of slavery, by calling their free 24-hour confidential helpline on 0800 808 3733.

The UK Modern Slavery Helpline is available 24/7 to offer confidential advice and support for any victim, statutory agency, business, or member of the public regarding modern slavery suspicions or concerns. Trained Helpline Advisers are available to discuss potential signs of modern slavery and options for callers or victims in need. Call free on 08000 121 700.

Related links

If you have any information about the mistreatment of workers, or labour providers operating without a licence or a business, you can contact the Gangmasters & Labour Abuse Authority  - call 0800 432 0804.

Read more here on our website about modern slavery and how it relates to other crimes, such as human trafficking and sexual exploitation.

If you would like to help with our campaign and share it with others, click or tap below to download our print-ready A5 leaflet in a variety of languages.