Slavery victims rescued

More than 150 victims of modern slavery have been rescued by police in Cambridgeshire in a year.

From July 2023 to June this year 165 people were rescued, which is an 11 per cent increase on the same period in 2022/23.

The victims all went through the National Referral Mechanism – a scheme that ensures victims get ongoing support.

From Monday (14 October) it's Anti-Slavery Week with charities and other organisations raising awareness of the issue and encouraging reporting.

The release of these statistics comes a month after Cambridgeshire Constabulary reported on a modern slavery case where a couple stole at least £200,000 from six vulnerable men working at McDonald’s.

Modern slavery can take many forms, but sectors particularly susceptible include hand car washes, nail bars, takeaways and the care sector. Slavery can also take the form of sexual exploitation and county lines drug dealing.

Signs of modern slavery include people looking tired, unkempt, avoiding eye contact and working excessive hours. They may also appear fearful of management and not have the correct protective equipment for the task they are completing.

The Cambridgeshire Victim and Witness Hub provides tailored support, with one particular specialism being services for migrants affected by slavery, trafficking and exploitation.

These specialists work alongside police throughout investigations, maintaining victim engagement, including providing valuable support at court by acting as an advocate for their welfare needs and translator in both language and criminal justice jargon.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Sloan said: “Modern slavery is a truly horrendous crime, with victims treated appallingly and often feeling trapped.

“We’re working hard to tackle the issue in the county and safeguard vulnerable people, but we need the public’s help.

“This Anti-Slavery Week we’re asking everyone to familiarise themselves with the signs of modern slavery and report any concerns. By doing so you could be helping someone out of a desperate situation.”

Police and Crime Commissioner, Darryl Preston said: “Criminals who target vulnerable people in need of work and somewhere to stay will be caught and brought to justice in Cambridgeshire.

“It is my role to ensure the victims are offered tailored support which we do through our countywide Victim and Witness Hub.

“You can play a role in identifying victims – if you suspect anyone may be at risk, please report your concerns to the police.”

More information on the signs of modern slavery can be found on the dedicated section of this website, where you can also report concerns.

Anyone, including victims, who would prefer not to contact police can speak to the Modern Slavery Helpline.

The helpline is run by the charity Unseen and can be contacted online or by calling 08000 121 700.

For more information on the Victim and Witness Hub visit their website.