Modern Day Slavery in Sussex

What is Modern Slavery?

Modern slavery is the illegal exploitation of people for personal or commercial gain. It covers a wide range of abuse and exploitation of people, including sexual exploitation, domestic servitude, forced labour, criminal exploitation and organ harvesting.

Victims of modern slavery can be any age, gender, nationality and ethnicity. They are often tricked or threatened into work and may feel unable to leave or report the crime through fear or intimidation. They may not even recognise themselves as victims. And we may not recognise them!

Signs

Modern slavery could be happening even in your community, so it’s important you know the signs that might indicate someone is a victim.

These signs aren’t always obvious, but here are some you may notice:

• do they look scruffy, malnourished or injured?
• are they acting anxiously - afraid or unable to make eye contact?
• are they working long hours, wearing unsuitable clothing or have the wrong equipment for the job?
• are they living in overcrowded, poorly maintained conditions? Are the curtains always closed?
• do they behave as if they’re being instructed by someone else, picked up/dropped off at the same time and place every day? Do they have money or identification?

Our Communities have an important role to play in recognising abuse, so take a look at this Sussex Police video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1RBblPD60Wg&feature=youtu.be

The Global Slavery Index, the most comprehensive study on the issue, estimates that there are over 136,00 people living in modern slavery in the UK today – that’s 2.1 victims in every 1,000 people in the country.

Police will investigate reports of modern slavery, and equally importantly, help to identify and safeguard vulnerable people, whether from the UK or overseas, who are at risk of becoming victims.

So watch out when you are shopping in your high street, or travelling, be aware of what’s going on around you. If you see something you think is unusual, please report it online or call us on 101 (always call 999 in an emergency), or Modern Slavery helpline 08000 121 700, or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111

Modern slavery is happening in your community. You can help we can tackle it, catch those responsible and safeguard victims. Make Sussex Safer.

More information and resources can be found on the Modern Slavery website: https://www.modernslaveryhelpline.org/

Elle Weaver, Development Manager and Head of Wellbeing & Mental Health