Extra funding to help Wiltshire victims of modern slavery
It'll ensure Wiltshire Police's services are accessible to more people
Last updated 16th May 2022
Wiltshire's Police and Crime Commissioner has secured £22,000 from the Home Office to help victims of human trafficking and modern slavery in the county.
The money will enable more emergency 'Go Bags' to be distributed alongside recently introduced safety cards and victim support materials in different languages.
The bags, which were initially launched by the Police and Crime Commissioner and Wiltshire Police last year, contain items like toiletries, a change of clothes and a basic mobile phone.
PCC Philip Wilkinson says the emergency bags also help play a key role in building trust and confidence with victims:
“Victims of modern slavery and human trafficking are vulnerable and often overwhelmed when they first encounter police. They often feel completely dehumanised by those who exploit them.
“While these bags are a small gesture, they offer much needed practical support in the first days following a victim being rescued from exploitation.
“They give back some sense of independence and play an important role in demonstrating to victims, particularly where English may not be their first language, that the police are there to help them, not criminalise them.”
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker, Wiltshire Police’s Lead for Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking, said:
“A victim focused approach is essential when dealing with Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking offences.
“It’s important we build rapport with victims – people who are vulnerable, frightened and overwhelmed when we first meet them. Often, they are from a different country and speak a different language. These support kits can help initiate that important first step of helping a victim.
“Perhaps, all they see is a uniform at first, but the offer of help through the ‘Go Bags’, phones and booklets can start to build an all-important connection between them and our officers and staff.”
Plea to report any concerns
Modern slavery is often hidden in plain sight, and with victims often having any means of independence and outside communication taken away from them, Wiltshire Police continues to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any concerns, no matter how minor they seem.
To report a suspicion or seek advice you can contact the Modern Slavery Helpline confidentially on 08000 121 700.
You can report modern slavery online or call Wiltshire Police on 101 at any time to report an incident.