Victims of modern slavery will be better supported in fresh
measures unveiled today (Friday 18th October).
For the first time, the Government has pledged to eradicate the
backlog of decisions on modern slavery cases within two years,
giving thousands of women, men and children who may have suffered
traumatic sexual, physical and economic abuse the clarity needed
to assist with their recovery.
Currently, many victims face long delays in having their status
as a victim of modern slavery confirmed through the National
Referral Mechanism, via a Conclusive Grounds decision. This can
lead to prolonged uncertainty and mental health
suffering.
Through hiring 200 additional Home Office staff to process cases,
thousands of vulnerable people will receive faster decisions on
their cases so that they can move forward with their lives,
whilst making the process more efficient.
These new employees are already being recruited and will be in
their posts in early 2025.
The Safeguarding Minister pledged the new reforms to a room of
charity and law enforcement delegates on Thursday (17th October)
to mark National Anti-Slavery Week, before traveling to meet
survivors of modern slavery at Salvation Army premises.
During the event, set out that tackling modern
slavery is one of her top priorities. She pledged to drive up
prosecution numbers for perpetrators of this vile crime and
reform the modern slavery system.
Minister for Safeguarding,
said:
“For too long, modern slavery survivors and the harrowing
experiences they have lived through have not been given the
attention and support they deserve.
“This is going to change. The actions I have announced today are
a first step towards putting survivors first, eradicating the
backlog of modern slavery cases to give victims the clarity and
peace of mind they need to move on with their
lives.
“Supporting victims of modern slavery is one of my top priorities
and there is much more to do. But be in no doubt, this government
will use every lever at its disposal to support them while we
pursue those who callously profit from their trauma and
misery.”
Major Kathy Betteridge, Director for Anti-Trafficking and
Modern Slavery, The Salvation Army,
said:
“We welcome today's announcement as a positive step towards
prioritising the needs of survivors of modern slavery. Far too
often, we see individuals in our support services whose recovery
is delayed because they feel trapped in limbo, unable to move
forward with their lives while awaiting decisions on their
cases.
“This is an encouraging sign that the new government recognises
the needs of survivors and is actively listening to them and
those who support them.
“We look forward to working with the Minister on the many
challenges that remain in restoring the UK's position as a world
leader in the protection and support of survivors of modern
slavery.”
ENDS
Notes for journalists
