Human trafficking and modern slavery

Modern slavery can take many forms:

• human and child trafficking. Sometimes violently, or with false promises of a better life
• forcing people to work, without giving them any money. This could involve setting up bank accounts that victims have no access to
• forcing victims to work to pay off extraordinary debts. This is known as debt bondage
• sexually exploiting victims
• having victims break the law or do criminal work. Like the production of illegal drugs
• forcing people to work in private homes, for little or no pay, and not letting them leave
• stopping victims from accessing their money and personal documents, like their passport. And not letting them contact their loved ones

The signs are often hidden, which makes it very hard to see victims around us. Sometimes they can’t leave a house. Or they rely on their abuser(s) to get around.

Here are some common signs that might suggest someone is a victim of modern slavery:

• physical appearance - they might appear malnourished, have untreated injuries, or show signs of physical abuse
• isolation
• poor living conditions
• few or no personal effects
• restricted freedom of movement
• unusual travel times
• reluctant to seek help

Find out more about how to spot on the signs on the Salvation Army and UnseenUK websites.

If you’re worried someone could be a victim of human trafficking, whether it's a colleague or someone you see when you’re out and about, it’s important to say something. Trust your instincts and don’t stay silent. Speaking up could make all the difference.

Safe Car Wash app

Reports suggest that some hand car washes exploit their workers, making as much money as possible without giving fair pay.

Many hand car washes are legitimate businesses. If you visit hand car washes, the Safe Car Wash app will ask you some questions about your experience, determining whether there are signs of modern slavery. If it seems likely that modern slavery is taking place, the app will give you the option to report the car wash to the Modern Slavery Helpline. The police can then access the details of the report.

Just one report can save lives. Download the app from the App Store.

How to report human trafficking

Members of the public who want to report or speak to someone about Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery should contact:

Community Safety Team (Office Hours Only)

• telephone: 01924 306645
• email: communitysafety@wakefield.gov.uk
• out of normal office hours contact: Social Care Direct 0345 8 503 503

If there’s an emergency, a threat to life or criminal activity, call 999.

If you’re a first responder, you should use The National Referral Mechanism (NRM). This is a Home Office process. It allows potential victims to access support services.

Find out more about the National Referral Mechanism

Partnership Intelligence Portal (PIP)

The Partnership Intelligence Portal (PIP), hosted by West Yorkshire Police, provides a central reporting system for partners and organisations to submit intelligence and information to the Police.

This is not a replacement for the NRM process. But allows you to submit intelligence and information that you have that needs sharing.

We can arrange training for the PIP. Contact communitysafety@wakefield.gov.uk. 

Please continue to call 101 to report crime. Or 999 in an emergency.

Training

Training is available through the Wakefield Safeguarding Children's Partnership. It can also be arranged to suit your individual team or service needs. For more information, please contact the Community Safety Team. 

Community Safety Team (Office Hours Only)

• telephone: 01924 306645
• email: communitysafety@wakefield.gov.uk