William Eichler 24 March 2017

Councils urge public to report suspicions of modern slavery

The public needs to be more aware of modern slavery, council chiefs warn as figures reveal the ‘hidden crime’ soaring.

New figures have revealed the number of referrals of potential slavery victims made by councils to the National Referral Mechanism - the UK’s framework for referring and supporting victims - has soared from 172 in 2014 to 306 in 2015 – a rise of 78%.

The Government estimates there are between 10,000 and 13,000 victims of modern slavery in the UK. This includes forced labour, human trafficking, and sexual exploitation.

The LGA, in partnership with the fire and rescue services, said the public should look out for tell-tale signs, such as large numbers of people being ferried to and from properties in vans or minibuses early in the morning and returning late at night.

‘Modern day slavery is a rising threat to our communities, and because of its hidden nature, is a major concern,’ said Cllr Simon Blackburn, chair of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board.

‘Criminal gangs are making large sums of money on the back of others’ misery by forcing people – often by threatening or using physical violence - to work for little or no pay, or to pay off outstanding debts.

‘By contrast those taking advantage of these people are often living luxury lifestyles.’

‘Councils are determined to identify these ruthless profiteers and rescue their victims from lives of servitude – and communities can really play a big part to help,’ he continued.

‘Many people may think modern slavery is a problem which doesn’t affect them, but nowhere is immune because it can happen everywhere. This isn’t someone else’s problem and we all need to be alert to it, wherever we live.’

For more on this topic read our feature, 'Tackling modern slavery with supply chain transparency.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Family Support Worker

Durham County Council
Grade 6 - £27,269 - £30,060 (Pay award pending)
Do you have a real passion for helping families to make positive changes for themselves and their children? This might be the right role for you!   WH Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Clerical Officer Receptionist

Durham County Council
Grade 3 £24,404 - £25,183 Pro Rata to hours worked Pay award pending
WHAT IS INVOLVED? We are looking to appoint a part time Clerical officer/Receptionist within Business Services to provide a professional, effective a Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Administration Assistant

Durham County Council
£25,584 - £27,711 pro rata
Administration Assistant Grade 5    £25,584 - £27,711 pro rata Temporary – required from 1st October 2025 until 31 December 2025 37 hours per week, Te Consett
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Support Assistant

Durham County Council
£24,027 pro rata
Support Assistant Grade 1 £24,027 pro rata Temporary – required from 1st October 2025 until 31st October 2026 Part Time, 32.5 hours Mon - Fri 9am -4pm Consett
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Lecturer in Foundation Learning -Maths, English and Digital

Durham County Council
Grade 9 £34,314 - £37,938 pro rata for part-time term time working PAY AWARD PENDING
The DurhamLearn Foundation Learning programme area delivers Digital Skills, English and Maths Functional Skills.   An opportunity has arisen for a Lec Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner