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“We all have a part to play”: Do you know the ‘red flags’ that could mean someone is a modern slavery victim? |
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EVERY Surrey resident has a part to play in tackling modern slavery, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Ellie Vesey-Thompson has said. Speaking on Anti-Slavery Day, which takes place each year on October 18, Ellie said victims are often “hidden in plain sight”. Last year, almost 20,000 victims were referred to authorities in the UK - the highest on record. The most common nationalities referred were UK (23 per cent; 4,441 people), Albanian (13 per cent; 2,492 people) and Vietnamese (11 per cent; 2,153 people). Many will have been forced into commercial work of any kind. However, common examples include on fishing boats, in sex work, in nail bars and at car washes. Surrey’s roads network is one of the routes utilised by traffickers because it is a main arterial route from the Channel ports. Ellie said: “The conditions experienced by modern slavery victims across the UK are nothing short of inhumane. “By looking out for red flags that someone is being exploited by a criminal, we can all help to prevent this abhorrent practice.” ▶️ Do you know how to spot the signs that someone is a victim of modern slavery? Victims of modern slavery may: Be scared to talk to people Avoid eye contact Have physical injuries or bruises Wear the same clothes every day, particularly if they’re dirty or unsuitable for the weather or the type of work being carried out Look malnourished or ill Work unusual or very long hours Not know the area where they live or work Not be allowed out alone Not have ID or a passport Not be in control of their earnings If someone is in immediate danger, or a crime is happening in front of you, always call 999. Otherwise, you can report via 101. The Modern Slavery Helpline can be contacted on 0800 0121 700. | ||
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