Modern slavery

Holding a person(s) in position of slavery, forced servitude, compulsory labour, or facilitating their travel with intention of exploiting them.

It is common that potential victims of modern slavery may be unaware of, or unable to understand, the concept of exploitation and control measures. They may also be coached or scripted to prevent disclosure to authorities.

When a potential victim of modern slavery is identified, or a suspect or location related to modern slavery that may require law enforcement intervention, it is crucial that any evidential material is preserved. Where safeguarding professionals engage with potential victims, best practice dictates that to overcome control measures and maximise meaningful disclosure appropriately trained staff are involved.

People with care and support needs may be at risk of abuse and neglect as a result of Modern Slavery and Trafficking exploitation. In these cases, local services must work together to spot those at risk and take steps to protect them.

Modern slavery is recognised as a form of abuse under the Care Act 2014, and where care and support needs exist, additional safeguarding duties under Section 42 will apply. Where there are no apparent care and support needs, organisations who have a legal obligation or responsibility should follow the national referral process if consent is given. If consent is not given, complete a Duty to Notify (MS1 form) to the Home Office. Immediate safeguarding actions should be taken to ensure safety and prevent further harm.

Examples include:

• Information that a person is being exploited or controlled by others.
• Information that a person is suffering physical and/or psychological abuse.
• Information that a person’s freedom and liberty is being restricted liberty.
• Information that others are exploiting a person through control of their finances, e.g., using bank account without permission.
• Information that a person is involved in the exploitation of others.
• Information that a location or vehicle is involved in the accommodation or transport of exploited persons.
• Exploitation may relate to the compulsion or coercion of another to undertake sexual services, physical labour (whether paid or unpaid), domestic work, enter forced marriage, undergo organ removal, or even commit criminal acts.
• Coercion may take the form of threats of violence to self or others, debt management, threat of deportation, psychological trauma or even deception. This may include a false promise of hierarchal progress in a gang.

Alternative actions to consider include:

• Refer to National Crime Agency guidance on Modern Slavery.
• Contact the local Exploitation/Violence Reduction Co-ordinator or Safeguarding Leads for further guidance (East Sussex, West Sussex and Brighton & Hove).
• RAISE SAFEGUARDING CONCERN
• If there is an indication a criminal act has occurred, the police must be consulted.
• Immediate safety plans must be implemented.