More than 150 people were recognised as potential victims of modern slavery in Nottinghamshire over the last year, an increase of more than 100% on the previous year.
Modern slavery can present in many ways and can be where an element of ownership is exercised over an individual. The victims are often exploited either criminally, sexually or through domestic servitude or forced labour. Recognising that children under the age of 18 are being exploited through ‘County Lines’ is also believed to be one of the reasons behind the increase both locally and nationally.
Human Trafficking involves the recruitment, movement, harbouring or receiving of children and adults through the use of force, coercion, abuse of vulnerability, deception or other means for the purpose of exploitation.
Nottinghamshire Police has invested resources and training into improving the identification and protection of victims of such offences, culminating in the rise in numbers of victims.
Detective Inspector Paul Lefford, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “We are always looking for ways to improve our service to the public and identifying victims of modern slavery to provide them with the care and protection is an area where we are seeing some positive outcomes. We work closely with partners and our colleagues from the Nottingham City Council Exploitation and Slavery Team to share information and support potential victims.’’
“While a rise in the number of victims may seem like there is rise in modern slavery in Nottinghamshire, what it actually tells us is that the Police and our partners are more effective at recognising potential victims and in a better place to identify and support them.
“We can then refer potential victims into the National Referral Mechanism.”
The National Referral Mechanism (NRM) is a framework for identifying and referring potential victims of modern slavery and ensuring they receive the appropriate support.
“The support received can be in the form of access to relevant legal advice, accommodation, protection as well as independent emotional and practical help,’’ added Inspector Lefford.
He said: “It is important to understand that modern slavery is an incredibly complex crime involving victims who don’t often recognise themselves as victims. This is where a partnership approach to safeguarding and victim support is vital.’’
The impact offences under the Modern Slavery Act can have on victims cannot be underestimated, so we are always looking to improve how we approach and look after victims.
“The NRM is a safeguarding tool that is regularly used to help victims of such offences and our figures reflect a similar national increase in the number of referrals.
“It is incredibly important for the public to raise any concerns they have about modern slavery, exploitation or coercive and controlling behaviour.
“If you spot something suspicious in your street or have concerns for someone, please do not hesitate to contact us on 101.”
If you are concerned that you are being exploited or believe someone you know is a victim of modern slavery, contact the Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700.
