Anti-Slavery Day – do you know the signs and what to do?

18 October marks Anti-Slavery Day. But do you know what modern slavery and human trafficking is?

Modern slavery exists in several forms, including trafficking into criminal activities like cannabis farming and sexual exploitation, or forced labour in construction, nail bars, or car washes. Put simply, it’s the exploitation of other people for personal or commercial gain.

So, what signs should you look for?

Someone in slavery might:
• Appear to be under the control of someone else
• not have personal identification on them
• have few personal belongings, wear the same clothes every day or wear unsuitable clothes for work
• not be able to move around freely
• be reluctant to talk to strangers or the authorities
• appear frightened, or show signs of physical or psychological abuse
• be dropped off and collected for work always in the same way, especially at unusual times, i.e. very early or late at night.

In 2023, the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) received 17,004 referrals of potential victims of modern slavery, the highest number of annual referrals since the NRM began. The real number of victims is estimated to be much higher.

It can happen anywhere to anyone, but some areas and people are more vulnerable than others. You might even come across people who are trapped in slavery without knowing it.

It’s important that we do our part and If you’ve concerns that someone living in a Southern Housing home could be a victim of modern slavery, or if you need support, visit our dedicated web page to get in touch.

You can also contact the Modern Slavery and Exploitation Helpline on 08000 121 700 or by visiting www.modernslaveryhelpline.org.