Modern slavery is a serious crime and the fastest growing organised crime in the world. It is hidden in plain sight and within our communities, high streets and businesses. In 2016, it was estimated 45.8 million men, women and children from every part of the globe were victims of modern slavery.
There are many different characteristics that distinguish slavery, however only one needs to be present for slavery to exist and victims can often face more than one type of exploitation. A person is considered to be in slavery if they are:
- forced to work through mental or physical threat
- owned or controlled by an ‘employer’, usually through mental or physical abuse
- dehumanised - treated as a commodity or bought and sold as ‘property’
- physically constrained or have restrictions placed on their freedom
Report Modern Slavery
If you think someone may be a victim of modern slavery call the 24/7 modern slavery helpline on 08000 121 700
For more information visit the Modern Slavery Helpline website.
Wirral Modern Slavery Strategy
Wirral Council has declared its support and commitment to stop modern slavery and human trafficking.
Read Wirral's Modern Slavery Strategy 2018 to 2021
Cooperative Party Charter Against Modern Slavery
In October 2018, Wirral signed up to the Cooperative Party Charter Against Modern Slavery.
Along with the Merseyside Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Cllr Emily Spurrell, representatives from the five local authorities commemorated National Anti-Slavery Day on 18 October by signing up to the Charter against Modern Slavery aimed at ensuring that exploitation has no place in council supply chains.
The Co-operative Party's Charter Against Modern slavery goes further than existing law and guidance, committing councils to proactively vetting their own supply chain to ensure no instances of modern slavery are taking place.