Slavery in Sussex ‘closer than you think’

Slavery in Sussex is ‘closer than you think’ – and police have launched a new campaign to combat the issue.

Modern Slavery is a crime hidden in plain sight involving the criminal exploitation of people who are often forced to work in horrendous conditions, live in cramped and often overcrowded accommodation and are at risk of violence and sexual exploitation.

Signs of modern slavery are not easy to spot, so police are asking our communities in Sussex to take a closer look.

Detective superintendent Jeff Riley, who leads Sussex Police’s fight against modern slavery, said: “Victims of modern slavery cannot be defined by any one particular behaviour, circumstance, industry or characteristic but a combination of these could indicate that someone is a victim.

“Some of the signs to be aware of include people living in overcrowded or cramped conditions, being picked up for work very early in the morning and being dropped off late in the evening. Sometimespeopleareisolated from the community they live or work in, barely speaking or not joining in conversation – they may avoid eye contact and not interact with people around them.

“There is no one stereotype to define victims of this crime, they can be from the UK or abroad, men, women or children, all coerced into a situation against their will.”

Police are asking people within our communities to be aware of the symptoms and behaviours attributed to victims of modern slavery and to report something thought to be suspicious.

Anyone with information that might identify or locate a potential victim or suspect for modern slavery, or someone youknowisavictimofmodern slavery, or even a location where suspected exploitation might be happening, can report it online or call police on 101. Always call 999 in an emergency.

Residents can also contact the national Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700, the Salvation Army’s helpline on 0300 303 8151, or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police said people could also support the campaign by following Sussex Police Twitter and Facebook accounts and sharing the posts.

Find more information on the Sussex Police modern slavery advice web pages.