Help for victims of modern slavery and human trafficking
There is help and support for victims of modern slavery and human trafficking. You can report these crimes to the police or to community-based organisations, who will be able to give you information on what support is available.
People who are trafficked or enslaved
You might be a victim of trafficking or slavery if:
- you're brought to Northern Ireland by force or pretence, or moved around Northern Ireland, and forced to work
- you're coerced or forced to have sex
- you're prevented from contacting your family and friends
- your boss keeps your money
- you're prevented from moving around when you want
- your passport or documents been taken from you
- there are threats to harm you or your family
- someone forces you to donate an organ
If you are or have been a victim of modern slavery or human trafficking, you should contact:
Know your rights
You are entitled to have your human rights respected. You can find out more about your rights in the modern slavery and human trafficking information leaflet. It is available in the following languages:
- English
- Amharic
- Arabic
- Bulgarian
- Romanian
- Somali
- Ukranian
- Vietnamese
Help is available
If you are a victim of modern slavery or human trafficking, you can get help and support through what is called the National Referral Mechanism (NRM). This process identifies victims of modern slavery and human trafficking and ensures they receive the right protection and support.
You will only be referred to the NRM if you give your consent. You should contact the police or Belfast and Lisburn Women’s Aid if you want to be referred.
Children do not need to give consent and should be immediately referred to the local Health Trust. If you are under 18 years old, a Health and Social Care Trust will be able to support you.
Once you enter the NRM, you can get help with:
- accommodation
- living expenses
- access to health and social care
- legal and immigration advice
If you prefer not to use the National Referral Mechanism, you might be able to get help from other organisations.
Getting Health and Social care
Health care, social care, counselling and other medical services can be provided if you are assessed to be in need of them.
If you have been trafficked for sex, you can receive care and support from the Sexual Assault Referral Centre. All recovered victims will be offered screening.
Health and Social Care services may be available to you even if you have not entered the NRM, or if you have been confirmed by the NRM not to be a victim of modern slavery or human trafficking.
Compensation for victims of trafficking and slavery
Some victims will be eligible to receive financial compensation. To read information in English and other languages, go to:
Advice and support organisations
If you have been trafficked or enslaved, you can contact other organisations for help, advice and support.
- Modern Slavery Helpline
- Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority
- Migrant Help
- Women’s Aid Federation Northern Ireland
- Victim Support NI
- The Rowan - Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC)
- Unseen
If you need help with accommodation or housing, contact the Housing Executive. You can also contact the Simon Community:
- phone: 0800 171 2222