MODERN SLAVERY AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Modern slavery is a form of exploitation where people have control over another person and force them to perform work or services. This, often hidden crime, can include:

• being forced to work for an employer, often without pay
• being held captive at a property and forced to perform domestic tasks
• being owned by another person, or being bought or sold
• being forced to take part in sexual activities (a form of sexual exploitation)
• being forced into marriage
• being forced to take part in criminal activities, such as transporting or selling drugs
• human trafficking – this is where people are moved against their will to places where they can be exploited

People who are enslaved will often have restrictions placed on their freedom, may be denied access to money and possessions and experience, or be threatened with, abuse.

Modern slavery can happen to anyone, whatever their nationality, ethnicity, gender and age. People may be enslaved by criminal organisations or people close to them, such as family, friends, partners or employers. It is a hidden crime – the person being exploited may feel too afraid to tell anyone that they are being exploited, and their exploitation may be hidden from public view.

Places where modern slavery can take place include:

• businesses such as car washes, nail bars and restaurants
• construction sites
• agricultural sites
• hotels and rented properties – these might, for example, be used for sexual exploitation

Modern slavery and human trafficking is happening in Devon. Hotspots include the tourism and hospitality industries, nail bars and car washes. Hotels and holiday lets may be used to house people whilst they are being exploited. As a hidden crime, our knowledge of modern slavery happening locally is still developing. Everyone can do their bit to be aware of the signs and report concerns.

Signs that a vulnerable child or adult is being exploited could include:

• Appearing to be under the control of someone else and reluctant to communicate with other people
• Having no personal identification, such as a passport or identity card – this might have been taken by the enslaver
• Having few personal belongings, wearing the same clothes or wearing clothes that are unsuitable for work
• Appearing frightened, withdrawn, showing signs of being abused
• Leaving or entering properties in the same way (for example always being picked up and dropped off in a vehicle), often at unusual times

Modern Slavery is happening in Devon – we all have a role to play in stopping it. If you are concerned that someone is being exploited help is available.