Modern slavery
Modern slavery can be hard to spot. Victims are often kept isolated from other people and are scared to speak out.
It can involve:
- forced labour - in places like nail bars, car washes, restaurants and farms
- criminal exploitation, including cannabis farming and begging
- sexual exploitation
- domestic slavery
- exploitation of people working in social care on migrant worker visas
- child exploitation, including ‘county lines’ drug dealing
Victims include adults and children of all ages and ethnicities.
Spot the signs of modern slavery
Some common signs of modern slavery include people who:
- are transported to and from work
- live in poor conditions and work long hours
- appear frightened of authorities or their ‘employers’
- show physical signs of abuse
- might steal food as they are not provided with enough to eat
- are unkempt and do not seem to benefit from the money they earn
Read more about the Common signs of modern slavery | Unseen
How to report modern slavery
If you suspect that someone is a victim of modern slavery, please report it.
For the safety of the victim and your own safety:
- Do not tell the victim you have reported it.
- Do not confront the traffickers.
You can report modern slavery to Sussex Police:
- Phone: 101
- Report a crime online | Sussex Police
- In person at your local police station
Remember to always call 999 if you are in danger.
Modern slavery helpline
If you do not wish to contact the police, you can contact the Modern slavery helpline:
- Phone: 0800 0121 700
- File a report online | Unseen