Fenland firms to get extra support to spot modern day slavery

Business will be give extra support to help spot the signs of modern day slavery thanks to new funding.

Following a successful bid for funding with Cambridgeshire’s Victim and Witness Hub, the money, worth £1,500, from the Modern Slavery Police Transformation Fund will help local businesses such as factories, banks and recruitment agencies to understand what signs to look for and how to report concerns about potential victims within their workforces.

Victims of modern day slavery can often show signs of physical or psychological abuse, fear of authorities, and often carry out irregular activity at homes or addresses.

In Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, victims are able to receive free emotional and practical support from Specialist Victim and Witness Care Co-ordinators, funded by the Commissioner.

The Victim and Witness Hub will use the money to put on a free event for businesses so they can find out more about protecting potentially vulnerable members of staff and what to do if they suspect someone is at risk.

Steve Welby, Head of the Victim and Witness Hub said: “Whether crimes are reported to the police or not, the Victim and Witness Hub provides a clear pathway of support for victims of trafficking or modern day slavery. Additionally, two Specialist Victim and Witness Care Coordinators provide advice and guidance supporting any employers looking for advice on what to do next once they identify a potential victim.

“The event, organised by Cambridgeshire Constabulary’s Northern Exploitation and Modern Day Slavery Team (Detective Sergeant Chris Acourt and Police Constable Nick Webber) will include presentations from expert organisations and local services enabling employers to appoint ‘Champions’ who can share what they learn with other members of staff.”

Police and Crime Commissioner, Jason Ablewhite added: “Modern day slavery exists in Cambridgeshire and it’s vital that employers understand how to spot the signs of people who may be at risk of becoming victims of slavery and what to do should that be the case. We all have a part to play in stopping this exploitation from happening. By reporting suspicions you could be saving lives.”

If you suspect someone is being exploited or is a victim of modern slavery in Cambridgeshire, report it by calling 101 or reporting online here.

Details about the event will be advertised over the coming weeks.