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Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking

Modern slavery is a serious crime and safeguarding concern that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, nationality, or background. Children, young people, and adults may be vulnerable to exploitation both online and offline.

Victims of modern slavery are often controlled through coercion, threats, violence, manipulation, debt, or abuse of power. Many do not recognise themselves as victims and may be fearful of seeking help.

Types of Modern Slavery

Labour Exploitation

Individuals are forced, coerced, or deceived into working in poor conditions for little or no pay.

Domestic Servitude

Victims may be forced to work within a household, often isolated from others and unable to leave freely.

Sexual Exploitation

Individuals are manipulated, groomed, pressured, or forced into sexual activity for another person’s financial or personal gain.

Human Trafficking

The movement, recruitment, transfer, harbouring, or receipt of a person for the purpose of exploitation.

Debt Bondage

Victims are forced to work to repay debts that are impossible to clear due to unfair conditions or added charges.

Criminal Exploitation

Individuals are coerced or manipulated into committing criminal activities.

Examples include:

  • County Lines drug activity
  • Theft and shoplifting
  • Fraud and financial crime
  • Transporting illegal goods

Child Exploitation

  • Children may be exploited criminally, sexually, domestically, or through forced labour.

 Risk Indicators

A person experiencing modern slavery may:

  • Appear frightened, withdrawn, anxious, or intimidated.
  • Be reluctant to speak in the presence of another person.
  • Have restricted freedom of movement.
  • Have few personal belongings.
  • Show signs of physical injury, neglect, malnutrition, or poor hygiene.
  • Be living in overcrowded or unsuitable accommodation.
  • Work excessively long hours.
  • Have little control over their finances.
  • Be unable to access identification documents.
  • Have inconsistent explanations regarding their living or working arrangements.
  • Demonstrate fear of authorities or professionals.
  • Be transported to and from work by the same individual.
  • Have poor attendance or unexplained absences from education.

Indicators Specific to Children and Young People

KCSIE highlights that children can be particularly vulnerable to exploitation and trafficking.

Staff should be alert to:

  • Going missing from home, care, or education.
  • Association with older individuals or groups.
  • Unexplained gifts, money, mobile phones, or clothing.
  • Multiple hotel stays or unknown addresses.
  • Increased secrecy regarding online activities.
  • Evidence of criminal or sexual exploitation.
  • Sudden changes in behaviour, wellbeing, or appearance.
  •  Indicators of County Lines involvement.

Contact numbers

National Referral Mechanism (NRM)

The National Referral Mechanism (NRM) is the UK’s framework for identifying and supporting potential victims of modern slavery and human trafficking.

Adults can be referred with informed consent, while children and young people should be safeguarded and referred through appropriate safeguarding processes.

Modern Slavery & Exploitation Helpline: 08000 121 700