Today marks the annual Anti-Slavery Day. 

Many people think slavery is something unheard of in this day and age, or it’s not happening near or around them. 

In actual fact slavery is happening, and it is happening in Warwickshire. 

Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Seccombe, commissions the West Midlands Anti Slavery Network to provide a service that supports victims of modern-day slavery. Nigel Oseman, is our Independent Modern Slavery Advocate working with partners including the police and local authorities, helping raise community awareness and also training front line staff and practitioners, he is always looking for opportunities to help people understand the issues surrounding this abhorrent crime. You can get in touch with the West Midlands Anti Slavery Network here. 

We want to give you some help on how to spot some of the signs of slavery and where to report. 

First it’s important to know there are different types:

There are some key signs that may help you spot if someone is a victim of modern day slavery:

How can you help someone who you believe to be a victim? 

There is a whole host of information on the West Midlands Anti Slavery Network website, with more detail on all of the above, and support for victims and survivors. 

If you or someone you know is a victim of any form of exploitation, or you suspect someone may be at risk of exploitation, you can contact your local District or Borough Council, or Warwickshire Police on 101. In an emergency call 999.

Alternatively, you can contact the independent Modern Slavery Helpline to report any suspicions or concerns about individuals, premises or locations. Businesses can also call for advice. Call 0800 0121 700 or report www.modernslaveryhelpline.org.