Laura Sharman 22 March 2021

Crack down on abuse of modern slavery safeguards

Crack down on abuse of modern slavery safeguards image

Local authorities will receive training to help frontline staff identify genuine victims of modern slavery.

The Home Office has warned that a rising number of people are abusing the modern slavery system by posing as victims so they can stay in the country.

However, changes proposed this week will make it harder for serious criminals and failed asylum seekers to take advantage of the system.

This includes training for frontline woks to assess genuine accounts of modern slavery before referring to authorities for an assessment.

The Government will also consult on strengthen the threshold for deciding if someone is a potential victim, and will look at the definition of ‘public order grounds’ to withhold protections from criminals.

Home secretary Priti Patel said: ‘Our generous safeguards for victims are being rampantly abused by child rapists, people who pose a threat to national security and failed asylum seekers with no right to be here.

’They are diverting resources away from genuine victims of trafficking, persecution and serious harm – which is completely unacceptable.’

The changes include greater support for genuine victims and granting temporary leave to remain in the UK to assist in their long-term recovery.

LocalGov Weekly Round Up image

LocalGov Weekly Round Up

A pivotal week for councils sees fresh devolution plans, new service pilots and key legal and political battles, writes LocalGov editor William Eichler.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Safeguarding Legal Services

Redbridge London Borough Council
£79,119 – £92,538
And we are reshaping our organisation to be better equipped to have the greatest impact for our community. Redbridge, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Redbridge London Borough Council

Local Land Charges Spatial Data Officer

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
Salary From £37,602-£45,564 Depending on skills,
Job Title
Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth

Head of Litigation

Redbridge London Borough Council
£79,119 – £92,538
Redbridge is changing. Redbridge, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Redbridge London Borough Council

Head of Commercial Legal Services

Redbridge London Borough Council
£79,119 – £92,538
And we are reshaping our organisation to be better equipped to have the greatest impact for our community. Redbridge, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Redbridge London Borough Council

Youth Engagement Worker x 8 posts (CDC)

City Of Doncaster Council
Grade 5, £13.26 per hour
The Partnership & Engagement Team are looking for 8, part time Youth Engagement Workers. Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Recuriter: City Of Doncaster Council
Linkedin Banner