Modern slavery and human trafficking

Modern slavery is the exploitation of people for personal or commercial gain. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender or background. It includes offences such as human trafficking, forced labour, sexual exploitation, domestic servitude, criminal exploitation and debt bondage.

Human trafficking involves recruiting, moving or harbouring people for the purpose of exploitation, often through coercion, deception or abuse of power or vulnerability. Trafficking does not have to involve crossing borders and can take place within local communities or even from one house to another.  For children, any movement for the purpose of exploitation is considered trafficking.

Trafficking relates to the movement of victims and modern slavery refers to the ongoing exploitation and control of those individuals.

Reporting concerns

If you think someone may be a victim of modern slavery or human trafficking, report your concerns to the Modern Slavery and Exploitation Helpline:

• 08000 121 700 (24 hours a day, 365 days a year)
• Visit the Modern Slavery Helpline website

In an emergency:

• Call 999

For non-emergencies:

• Call 101 or
• Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Victims can also receive support through the National Referral Mechanism, the UK's framework for identifying and supporting potential victims of modern slavery and human trafficking.