What is Modern Slavery?
Modern slavery is where someone is held in domestic servitude (for example, a maid/servant in a home) and/or forced to work for little or no pay. It includes human trafficking (moving people from one place to another to be exploited) and sexual exploitation (selling people for sex or pornography).
People are often tricked into forced labour or servitude. A victim of modern slavery will have their movements controlled or restricted by another. It doesn't always mean they are imprisoned or in chains. A situation can still be modern slavery if a person has given consent (agreed to do the work). This is because people can feel pressurised into doing the work and staying with their exploiter. They may be vulnerable and unable to challenge (for example - children, those who are mentally ill or those who have a learning disability) or frightened what might happen to them or their family if they leave. A person committing modern slavery might use force, threats or deception (tricks) to keep that person.
Sometimes a victim of modern slavery may feel grateful for being provided with some food and accommodation if they are destitute. That doesn't make it right or legal - they are still being exploited.
Which industries are affected by Modern Slavery?
In the UK it is estimated that around 13,000 people are enslaved. It is more likely to be found in industries where there is high demand and low pay (manual work).
Modern Slavery has been found in the following industries (not an exhaustive list):
- farming - including fruit, veg and flower picking
- HGV driving
- care homes
- hotels
- nail bars
- car washes
- charity bag collection
- domestic servants
- fishing
- tarmacking and paving
- restaurants and takeaways
Are certain groups more vulnerable to becoming victims of Modern Slavery?
Yes. While it is possible for anyone to become a victim of Modern Slavery, the following groups are more at risk:
- young people
- women and girls (around 70%)
- homeless people
- people with little or no English, including asylum seekers and refugees
- people with learning disabilities
- people with mental health problems