Modern Slavery is a broad term that includes human trafficking and refers to situations where individuals are exploited through severe forms of control or abuse, including forced labour, forced marriage, debt bondage, or involuntary servitude. It involves denying people their basic rights and freedoms, trapping them in situations where they are unable to escape or refuse to work.
Human trafficking is when people are forced or tricked into working or being exploited against their will. This often involves being controlled through threats, violence, or deception. Victims might be made to work in poor conditions, perform illegal activities, or be exploited in a variety of ways.
They might be vulnerable due to:
Individuals are compelled to work against their will under threat of violence, punishment, or other forms of coercion. This often occurs in many sectors including agriculture, construction, and hospitality.
Victims are coerced into performing sexual acts or engaging in sex work. This can include trafficking for commercial sex, sexual slavery, or forced involvement in pornography.
People are forced to work to repay a debt, often under unfair conditions and with little hope of ever repaying the debt. The terms are usually exploitative, and the debt is manipulated to ensure continued servitude.
Individuals, often women and children, are forced to work in private households, performing tasks like cleaning, cooking, and childcare under abusive conditions with little or no pay and restricted freedom.
Individuals are coerced into marriage without their consent, often under threat of violence or other forms of pressure. This form of exploitation can trap individuals in abusive relationships and limit their freedom.
Victims are forced or manipulated into committing crimes, such as drug trafficking through county lines, theft, or other illegal activities. They are often exploited by criminal organisations or gangs.
Spotting the signs of modern slavery can be challenging, but being aware of certain indicators can help identify potential victims. Here are some signs to watch for:
Recognising these signs is the first step towards helping individuals who may be victims of modern slavery. If you suspect someone might be a victim, it’s important to report your concerns. In emergency call the police on 999 or you can report concerns to the Modern Slavery Helpline on 0800 0121 700
If you are a business, you might be interested in being a Spot the Signs Ambassador and finding out about Rebuild’s Spot the Signs campaign
The National Referral Mechanism (NRM) is a government framework for identifying victims of human trafficking or modern slavery and ensuring they receive the appropriate support.
There are only certain approved organisations who are ‘First Responders’ who can refer a person into the NRM. The First Responder will speak to the potential victim of human trafficking and/or modern slavery to discuss the NRM and assess whether they show indicators of trafficking. If the First Responder believes an individual may have experienced trafficking or slavery and the potential victim agrees to a referral being made, then the First Responder will complete a form and send it to the Competent Authority. You can find a list of First Responders here.
Two of the key First Responders are the Local Authority & Police but the Salvation Army are also First Responders and they have a 24/7 referral helpline 0800 808 3733 .
Survivors of modern slavery often face numerous barriers to recovery, which can impede their ability to rebuild their lives and achieve long-term stability. Here are some common barriers:
Addressing these barriers requires a comprehensive approach that includes providing trauma-informed care, legal support, economic empowerment, and addressing both practical and emotional needs. Rebuild East Midlands exists to ensure that survivors do not have to navigate these barriers alone but have access to a support networks that empowers recovery.
Rebuild provides tailored support to each individual, to help them navigate the challenges of their personal barriers to recovery so that they can build a new life free from exploitation.
Million people are held globally in Modern Slavery – an increase of 10 million since 2016
held in Modern Slavery are children
are women and girls
thought to be trapped in slavery in the UK
of potential victims referred to authorities were British nationals (2021)**
% of the above potential victims of British nationality referred to authorities were children
