Wales had 123 cases of modern slavery last year, says agency
MORE than 100 cases of modern slavery were reported across Wales last year, with just under half in relation to labour exploitation.
Figures from the National Crime Agency reveal there were 123 reports of modern slavery in 2016 in Wales, with 53 in relation to labour exploitation.
Blackfords LLP legal expert Rhiannon Evans said the construction sector is “frequently recognised among the most prevalent for worker exploitation” and urged Welsh construction companies to “act immediately” if they fear they are linked to modern slavery via supply chains.
Ms Evans said: “The construction sector is frequently recognised among the most prevalent for worker exploitation, as a result of the global trend towards outsourcing within the industry and its dependence on third-party contractors, who could be supplied from a number of different sources.
“While the vast majority would never knowingly partake in any exploitation, this potential lack of knowledge surrounding employee circumstances and conditions may not be a strong enough defence, so employers cannot afford to turn a blind eye to this.”
Statistics show that up to 34% of modern slavery victims in the UK are left vulnerable to repeat exploitation.
Ms Evans said: “Employers who have hired in a victim of modern slavery, could be implicated in the offence themselves, which could have serious consequences for themselves and their business. Even in situations where a potential victim appears to consent or acquiesce to their treatment or conditions, this does not necessarily mean they are acting under their own free will.
“If there is any suspicion at all that you or your company are somehow involved in worker exploitation through a supply chain, act immediately and notify the authorities.”
The law firm praised the introduction of a code on ethical employment in supply chains by the Welsh Government.
Ms Evans said: “These guidelines will provide more clarity for businesses on what constitutes modern slavery and how it can be prevented.
“Not only will it help to curb this practice, it will also protect managers across the industry, by providing them with the tools they need to protect themselves against becoming inadvertently involved in exploitation.”
The Welsh Government said that some of the signs to look out for include a victim avoiding eye contact, appearing malnourished and having a distrust of authority.
A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “We are pleased the report has recognised our Code of Practice for Ethical Employment in Supply Chains in the Welsh public sector is making a difference.
“It is just one of the ways we are tackling this despicable crime that brings misery and suffering to those affected and their families. We are as committed as ever to making Wales hostile to slavery.
“To get the best outcomes we have to tackle slavery at a UK, Wales and local level and we have to work together across government and the public, private and third sectors.
“Since 2014 we have trained over 12,000 people from public and third sector organisations to recognise the signs of slavery and to report incidents so that we can provide support to victims and bring perpetrators to justice.”
Advice can be found by calling the modern slavery helpline on 0800 0121700.