Forced labour is a terrible violation of fundamental rights as well as human dignity and physical and mental integrity. As licensed members of the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority we are dedicated to protect our workforce and ensure their safeness. We have a zero-tolerance policy for compulsory labour, and we can ensure you that modern slavery does not exists in any area of our or our clients’ businesses.

If you know anyone that is affected by modern slavery, then you should contact us immediately or inform the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority on 0800 432 0804 or via their website http://www.gla.gov.uk/

Valeria had a difficult family situation. She lived with her mother and stepfather, raising a child without the father. At one point, she heard about the possibility of working in Germany, where she was supposed to clean rooms in a hotel. When she arrived, she was immediately forced into prostitution. She was in shock and she tried to escape but nothing worked. The most difficult thing for her in this tragic experience was that it was her mother who encouraged her to leave. She told her:

 

Darius' story

Darius got a job in Great Britain through an agency dealing with intermediation on the local labour market. He was supposed to work as a kitchen staff in a hotel or restaurant. Upon arrival he found out that the conditions of the arrangement were completely different. The work and apartment addresses didn't match the addresses he was previously given. His freedom was restricted, he was not allowed to leave the house and his earnings were taken away, saying he had to pay off the debt. When he tried to object, he experienced violence and intimidation. He was also forced to steal.

 

As estimated by the International Labor Organisation, there are about 40 million similar stories in the world.

 

Modern slavery in the UK

The number of people identified as victims of modern slavery in the UK has been rising year on year, with over 10,000 people referred to authorities in 2019. The real number of people trapped in slavery is estimated to be much higher. You probably see people who are in slavery on a regular basis. They don’t have shackles, they might appear ordinary, but look closer and you might spot more worrying traits. What are the signs of slavery? Here are few signs to look out for.

Someone in slavery might:

• Appear to be under the control of someone else and reluctant to interact with others
• Not have personal identification on them
• Have few personal belongings, wear the same clothes every day or wear unsuitable clothes for work
• Not be able to move around freely
• Be reluctant to talk to strangers or the authorities
• Appear frightened, withdrawn, or show signs of physical or psychological abuse
• Dropped off and collected for work always in the same way, especially at unusual times, i.e. very early or late at night.

What to do if you spot the signs?

If you suspect that someone is in slavery, DO NOT confront them or cause a scene as this will likely lead to increased harm for them. Instead, inform relevant authorities or organisations working in the field.

If you are in the UK and suspect someone might be in slavery, you have several options:

• Call the Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700 or fill out an online form.
• Contact the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority to report concerns about the mistreatment of workers on 0800 432 0804, or by email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• Contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
• Contact us or the Police
• Contact Stronger Together if you spotted someone in slavery at work
• Contact Anti-Slavery International or other specialist anti-slavery organisations

If you are outside of the UK, search online for the relevant helpline in your country. If you are abroad and think you are being exploited or have been trafficked, the first best option is always to contact your embassy or consulate for support.