- Scruffy and unkempt
- Malnourished and exhausted
- Poor hygiene
- Bruises, cuts and other untreated injuries
- Traumatised
- Unsuitably dressed for work they are carrying out
- Always wearing same clothes
- Branded with a tattoo to indicate ownership (victims of sexual exploitation)
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- Modern slavery: Spotting the signs and reporting concerns
Modern slavery: Spotting the signs and reporting concerns
Men, women and children of all ages, nationalities and from all backgrounds, can be victims of modern slavery.
They are tricked or threatened into work and may feel unable to leave or report the crime through fear or intimidation. They may not even recognise themselves as a victim.
Below are some indicators that someone may be the victim of exploitation.
Signs - the person
- Anxious/agitated
- Scared/intimidated
- Under the control and influence of drugs/drink
- Giving a story which seems rehearsed/scripted
- Unable to make eye contact
- Allowing others to speak on their behalf
- Unfamiliar with their surroundings
- Unaware of their home address details
- Fearful & mistrustful of authorities
Signs - the environment and freedom
- Working excessive hours
- No contract for employment or accommodation
- Accommodation is dirty, cramped, & overcrowded. Lacks sanitation
- Sleeping at premises at which they work
- Being isolated from the local community and their family
- Reluctant to take payment directly
- Transported to and from the workplace together, under the control of others
- They have few personal possessions
- They are not in possession of their passport or ID documents, mobile phone
- Not allowed to travel alone
- Access to their earnings is denied or restricted
- Believe they have a debt to pay off
- They do not have access to a bank account
- Not accessing or able to access medical care
- No way of contacting others
If you suspect someone is a victim
- POLICE where there is an immediate threat to life call 999
- Report an immigration or border crime
- To report a crime/information or for advice around any concerns Essex Police report a crime page
- Call the confidential UK Modern Slavery Helpline 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on 08000 121 700, or report online
- Call crime stoppers 0800 555 111 or submit information via their anonymous online form. Give information | Crimestoppers (crimestoppers-uk.org)
- If you are on a train text British Transport Police on 61016.
Remember that victims may not identify as victims so will say they are ok or will have a script, trust your judgment; remember the signs!