If you suspect that someone is a possible victim of Modern Slavery be aware of your own safety or that of the potentially trafficked person and don’t do anything to endanger either. Ask any questions sensitively and discreetly. Try to remember helpful details including the date, time, location, description of people and any vehicle.  Move to safety and take notes. Leave at the slightest hint of danger and keep well clear of the potential trafficker. Never investigate dangerous locations or go alone.
 

If you are in contact with a possible victim of Modern Slavery remember the following points:

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• Potential victims of modern slavery are likely to be extremely vulnerable. They may fear revealing their status or experiences to state authorities and will often mistrust individuals in authority. 

• There may be language and communication barriers, including literacy or learning disabilities, as well as cultural considerations. 

• Victims may present as unwilling to co-operate, especially if they are with their traffickers or other victims. 

• Victims may not identify themselves as a victim of modern slavery. 

 

Safeguarding  

 

For faith and community groups, if you are in contact with someone who is a possible victim of Modern Slavery it is best to obtain consent from that person in order to report a safeguarding issue. 

 

Under normal safeguarding guidelines, as long as someone has the mental capacity to make a decision, an adult can refuse you to report a safeguarding issue unless there is risk of physical harm or to prevent a criminal offense. However due to the nature of the crime of Modern Slavery and manipulation and control that person may be under, they may not be able make an informed decision about disclosure. Given that slavery and exploitation are criminal activities and that almost certainly there will be others who are at risk in addition to the person being helped this would be a reason for not needing the consent of the person. Consent is always preferable.