Scottish Government doubles support for human trafficking victims

Support for human trafficking victims in Scotland will be doubled to 90 days, the Justice Secretary has announced.

Michael Matheson said the extended period is triple the Council of Europe minimum time and twice as long as the rest of the UK.

The change is being made after consultation with victims' groups and other justice agencies, and is a key part of a new strategy launched in May aimed at eliminating human trafficking in Scotland.

Almost #800,000 will be provided this year through support groups Trafficking Awareness Raising Alliance (Tara) and Migrant Help UK.

Addressing a Holyrood debate on trafficking, Mr Matheson said: “Trading adults and children as commodities is an abhorrent crime which degrades victims and causes lasting physical and psychological damage.

“There were 150 victims of trafficking supported in Scotland last year, each person suffering abuse and exploitation over weeks, months or even years. This cannot continue in our communities.

“We are working hard to make Scotland an increasingly hostile place for those who traffic other human beings, while also improving the support we provide to victims. We have been listening to groups working directly with victims and I am pleased that we will now double the length of support available for adult victims to 90 days.”

He said the increased support is one of a number of measures being taken including running an awareness-raising campaign later this year and giving more help to the police, prosecutors and courts to better target human traffickers.

John Merralls, Migrant Help UK's senior operations manager for Scotland, said: “This move demonstrates the Scottish Government's clear commitment to supporting and listening to the voices of victims of human trafficking in Scotland and represents a significant step in recognising the importance of an enhanced support period and the benefits that will provide.