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Modern slavery takes many different forms including forced domestic service, human trafficking for exploitation, and crimes which enable trafficking. It is a human rights violation which has very serious consequences for the health and wellbeing of survivors; victims are often hidden away and may be unable to leave their situation, or unable to come forward because of fear or shame.
The United Nations International Labour Organisation estimates that the global profit from Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery is £185 billion (March, 2024) making it the second most profitable worldwide criminal enterprise, after the illegal arms trade.
Unfortunately, the hidden nature of the crime means that it is very difficult to produce accurate figures of the numbers of people involved. The UK Government reports that 19,125 potential victims of modern slavery were referred to the Home Office in 2024, representing a 13% increase compared to the preceding year (16,990). This is only part of the story as many cases go unreported: worldwide 1 in 4 victims are children. Every year, thousands of men, women and children fall into the hands of human traffickers, becoming unpaid modern-day slaves in their own countries and abroad.
‘Human trafficking is a crime against humanity. We must unite our efforts to
free victims and stop this crime that’s become ever more aggressive, that
threatens not just individuals, but the foundational values of society.’
Modern slavery is real and is happening all around us. There are a number of signs which can indicate if someone is in an exploitative situation or being trafficked. They include:
• Showing signs of physical or psychological trauma: looking malnourished or unkempt, anxious or agitated.
• Appearing withdrawn and neglected.
• Being fearful, anxious or distrustful of authorities.
• Having injuries that could be the result of controlling measures or have been left untreated.
• Being unfamiliar with local language or geography.
• Not knowing their home or work address - recounting a story that sounds rehearsed.
• Dependency on, or the presence of, a ‘controller’.
• Believing that they have a debt to pay off.
• Being separated from important documents including their ID or passport.
• Not having days off or being unable to leave work.
• Having limited or no social interaction.
• Having threats made against themselves or their family.
If you believe a person is being trafficked and is in immediate danger, you should call 999 immediately. You can report suspicions of trafficking by calling 101 or visiting your local police station.
The task to overcome the criminal trade in people is enormous. Our Diocese is committed to combatting modern slavery in all its guises and has a Steering Group attached to our Social Action Commission. The Steering Group aims to combat modern slavery wherever it is found, working diligently towards its abolition by collaborating with churches, charities, volunteers and external organisations, actively raising awareness, and assisting the police in bringing the perpetrators modern slavery to justice.
The Diocese also supports an ecumenical volunteer network of "Abolition Ambassadors" in partnership with the Anglican Diocese of Chichester. Working together, our Ambassadors raise awareness of human trafficking and modern slavery, encouraging people to be vigilant and giving them the tools they need to report suspicious activity - including providing people, communities and groups with the latest information.
Our Abolition Ambassador's remit includes awareness raising, lobbying (where appropriate) for a rigorous application of government legislation, holding companies and organisations accountable for their supply chains, and highlighting hidden sources of exploitation. Click on the buttons below to find out more:
Please contact our Social Action Advisor if your parish is interested in being part of the diocesan response to modern slavery.
