'Human packaging' scattered across Hull

The human sized cardboard boxes have appeared to raise awareness of the problem of modern day slavery.

Published 18th Oct 2016

Human sized cardboard boxes have been scattered across Hull to highlight the problem of modern day slavery.

A new study by the University of Hull has found that less than 1 in 10 people know the true scale of slavery in the UK - which it's estimated affects 13,000 people.

The study also found that more than half admit to not being aware of the most common signs of slavery, while a third of people also believe it’s only women who are affected – when in reality it affects men and children too.

'Human packaging' have appeared at key high-footfall locations in the city centre on Anti-slavery Day (October 18) to draw awareness to the issue as part of its #HiddenInPlainSight campaign.

John Oldfield, Director of the Wilberforce Institute at the University of Hull said:

“Tackling slavery remains unfinished business, here in the UK and across the world. Modern day slavery often plays out in plain sight and can be difficult to detect, especially if people don’t know what signs to look for, which our research has highlighted is the case. What’s clear is that there is still a critical amount of work still to be done to increase widespread public awareness.

“Hull is proud to have been central to an abolition movement once before, which is why the University of Hull is marking Anti-Slavery Day with our #HiddenInPlainSight campaign, taking place across the city today, which aims to highlight the plight of modern day slavery and encourage people to look twice at what is happening all around them. Modern Slavery is an issue that won’t be solved until everyone opens their eyes and commits to tough action.”