Modern slavery is a complex crime that operates on a huge scale across multiple countries.
‘Modern slavery’ is a term used to describe extreme forms of exploitation that occur today. People experiencing modern slavery may be forced, threatened or deceived in order that others can control them and profit from their labour or actions. .
Types of Modern Slavery
There is no internationally agreed legal definition of modern slavery. But in the UK, authorities use the term to refer to a number of serious crimes including:
- Forced labour
- Sexual exploitation
- Criminal exploitation
- Domestic servitude
- Human trafficking
- Organ trafficking
Who is at Risk of Modern Slavery?
The Home Office has produced guidance to help identify potential victims of modern slavery. Anyone can become vulnerable to exploitation, but some people face higher risks than others.
Risks can come from situational factors such as poverty, unemployment, homelessness, debt, or irregular immigration status. Social factors including isolation, bereavement or a lack of supportive relationships can make people more vulnerable.
People may also be at higher risk due to physical or cognitive impairments such as physical disabilities, learning disabilities, substance misuse or mental health conditions.
The Nuffield Foundation funded a two year research project that studied the links between cognitive impairment and exploitation. You can read more about this project here.
Spotting the Signs of Modern Slavery
The problem is that victims of modern slavery are often hard to spot. People who are controlling others go to great lengths to keep their activities secret. They often also isolate their victims while restricting their movements. This makes it very difficult for them to get help.
But there are some signs you can look out for. Some of them are obvious, and some are a little more subtle:
- The person looks uneasy, unkempt, unwell or malnourished. They may be fearful of harm to themselves or others. They may have untreated injuries.
- The person may not speak for themselves, or seem to have little control over their work, money, travel or important documents such as passports.
- The person doesn’t have a good understanding of their rights, has poor living or working conditions, or is working excessive hours.
Not all of these signs indicate that the person is a victim of modern slavery. But any one sign indicates that an investigation may be in order.
Local Authorities, British Transport Police, National Crime Agency and The Children’s Society are working in partnership to ask the public to ‘look closer’ to recognise and respond to signs of exploitation and abuse. They have produced a guide to encourage people to Look Closer.
What To Do if You Suspect Modern Slavery is Happening in Your Area?
It’s always worth raising your concerns.
The Modern Slavery Helpline is a free, confidential service available in 200 languages, 08000 121 700. Concerns can also be reported online.
The Salvation Army also has a 24/7 confidential helpline where you can share your concerns. It’s 0800808 3733.
If you think someone is in immediate danger, or if the individual is under 18, call the police on 999. They’ll take your concerns very seriously indeed, and they’ll treat the case as a matter of urgency.
You can read about the other types of harm.
Safeguarding Adults Online Courses
Learn more about safeguarding adults and learn how to recognise the signs of abuse with our introductory safeguarding adults courses.
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