Police in Cambridgeshire have seen an 11% increase of victims rescued from modern slavery
They rescued more than 150 victims of modern slavery in a year
Cambridgeshire police rescued 165 victims of modern slavery from July 2023 to June this year.
This is an 11% increase from the previous year.
Modern slavery is a truly horrendous crime
Victims all went through the National Referral Mechanism – a scheme that ensures victims get ongoing support.
Modern slavery can take many forms, but sectors particularly susceptible include hand car washes, nail bars, takeaways and the care sector.
Slavery can also take the form of sexual exploitation and county lines drug dealing.
Detective Chief Inspector Neil Sloan said:
"The fact that those numbers are coming up is that is actually a positive."
"We're starting to spot those signs identifying those vulnerable people, support them and use national referral mechanism to identify that they have been exploited."
"People think that because we're a landlocked county, organised immigration crime doesn't affect us, but it does."
'Modern slavery is a truly horrendous crime, with victims treated appallingly and often feeling trapped.'
'We’re working hard to tackle the issue in the county and safeguard vulnerable people, but we need the public’s help.'
We need the public’s help
Now, police in Cambridgeshire are urging people to familiarise themselves with the signs of modern slavery.
Signs of modern slavery include people looking tired, unkempt, avoiding eye contact and working excessive hours.
They may also appear fearful of management and not have the correct protective equipment for the task they are completing.
Victims are treated appallingly and often feel trapped
The Cambridgeshire Victim and Witness Hub provides tailored support, with one particular specialism being services for migrants affected by slavery, trafficking and exploitation.
They work alongside police throughout investigations, maintaining victim engagement, including providing valuable support at court by acting as an advocate for their welfare needs and translator in language.
Police and Crime Commissioner, Darryl Preston said:
'Criminals who target vulnerable people in need of work and somewhere to stay will be caught and brought to justice in Cambridgeshire.'
'It is my role to ensure the victims are offered tailored support which we do through our countywide Victim and Witness Hub.'
'You can play a role in identifying victims – if you suspect anyone may be at risk, please report your concerns to the police.'
Cambridgeshire Police have said the signs of modern slavery can be found here
They also say:
"Anyone, including victims, who would prefer not to contact police can speak to the Modern Slavery Helpline.
"The helpline is run by the charity Unseen and can be contacted online or by calling 08000 121 700.
"For more information on the Victim and Witness Hub visit their website"