Modern slavery and human trafficking
Modern slavery and human trafficking can affect anyone of any age, gender or nationality. It involves the possession of people by force, threat or deception to exploit them. It is the illegal movement of a person into or within a country.
Examples of human trafficking and slavery
Adults and children can be trafficked or enslaved and forced to sell their bodies for sex. People are also trafficked or enslaved for labour exploitation, for example:
- to work on a farm or factory
- to work in a house as a servant, maid or nanny
- to beg on the street
Where children have been trafficked and exploited this is an offence, even if no force or threats have been used and the child has given consent.
Signs to look out for
Victims of modern slavery and human trafficking are found in different situations. These are certain signs that show someone has been trafficked or enslaved.
General signs
People who have been trafficked or enslaved may believe that they must work against their will. They might receive little or no payment and be unable to leave their work environment. Trafficked and enslaved victims may be subjected to violence or threats of violence against themselves or others, and they may not have their passport or other documents.
Children
Children who have been trafficked or enslaved may have no access to their parents or guardians. They may look frightened and behave in a way that is not normal for children of their age. They may have no access to education and might travel in groups with people who are not relatives.
Sexual exploitation
People who have been trafficked or enslaved for sexual exploitation may move from one brothel to the next, or work in various locations. They might live or travel in a group, sometimes with others who do not speak the same language.
Evidence that someone has had unprotected or violent sex, or that they cannot refuse unprotected or violent sex, may also be an indicator that they have been trafficked or enslaved for sexual exploitation.
Labour exploitation
People who have been trafficked or enslaved for labour exploitation may live in groups in the same place where they work and leave those premises infrequently, if at all. They might not be dressed adequately for the work they do, have no labour contract, work excessively long hours, or lack basic training and professional licences. They might also be subjected to insults, abuse, threats or violence.
Understanding modern slavery and human trafficking
Modern slavery and human trafficking can take many different forms. However, it is mainly when criminals take advantage of and exploit vulnerable people for profit.
- This Human trafficking video shows how some gangs organising labour exploitation work
- Videos about modern slavery and labour exploitation
If you suspect someone has been trafficked or enslaved
If you suspect that someone has been trafficked or enslaved:
- call 999 in an emergency
- call 101 about the general situation
- call 0800 0121 700 for the Modern Slavery Helpline
Support for victims
Some people are not aware they are victims of modern slavery or human trafficking. You can learn more about the signs, rights and what help is available.