Modern slavery and human trafficking

Whilst each case of Modern Slavery can look different, there are signs which are common across multiple forms of exploitation, which may suggest an individual is at risk of, or is a victim of a form of Modern Slavery. These signs include if someone: 

• acts as if instructed by another, as though they are forced or coerced to carry out specific activities
• demonstrates signs of physical or psychological abuse, such as lacking self-esteem, seeming anxious, bruising, or untreated medical conditions
• seems to be bonded by debt; has money deducted from their salary; or has a lack of access to earnings
• has little or no contact with family or loved ones
• is distrustful of authorities
• has threats made against themselves or family members 
• is not in possession of their own legal documents (Passport or documents are held by someone else) 

The Stop The Traffik website has additional details of warning signs which may be more apparent with specific forms of slavery. 

Emerging National and Local Trends: 

• Recruiters – strangers, acquaintances, friends
• People offered and accepting high-risk jobs
• Borderline cases, not enough evidence
• Borders crossed legally
• Recruiters create the illusion of “wellbeing,” manipulate the victims
• Shorter period of exploitation
• More labour trafficking cases and men-victims identified
• Less victims identifying themselves as such.