Anna Sedgwick's Kilimanjaro Climb for Snowdrop
Today is my 40th Birthday. GULP! Nearly four whole decades of life and a significant milestone in a story that in many ways, I hope, is just getting started. So, to mark the occasion (as well as drinking lots of prosecco), I’m taking on the biggest challenge of my life and in August 2024, I will be climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to raise awareness of modern slavery and raise as much money as I can for The Snowdrop Project.
What is Modern Slavery? Although modern slavery is not defined in law, essentially it refers to situations of exploitation that a person cannot refuse or leave, usually because of threats or violence or the abuse of power. Modern slavery is a complex and hidden crime, but it is taking place in South Yorkshire: these victims are embedded in our communities, and it could be taking place behind the doors of the streets you walk down on a daily basis. Without knowing it, you might regularly see people who are in slavery. Modern slaves can be vulnerable people of all ages, including people from the UK, who are forced to work illegally against their will in many different sectors, including construction, brothels, nail bars, take-aways, factories, the care sector and car washes.
Why The Snowdrop Project? As the DCI in Modern Slavery in South Yorkshire Police, my team work closely with The Snowdrop Project, who are a Sheffield based charity that provides long term support to victims of modern slavery and exploitation. Unfortunately, in my role I see the horrors that these people endure. The Snowdrop Project offer a glimmer of hope and support victims to move on from the past and rebuild their futures. From small beginnings 12 years ago, the charity now has a huge impact on the lives of survivors, as well as influencing parliamentary policies on this hidden crime.
So, how can you help? Although I have self-funded the trip, my goal is to raise £5,000 for The Snowdrop Project - and I’m almost there. Please sponsor me if you can: Anna Sedgwick is fundraising for The Snowdrop Project (justgiving.com). My second ask is that you think wider about spotting the signs of modern slavery. We are all responsible for being alert to the risks of modern slavery and reporting it when you feel that something isn’t right. IF YOU SUSPECT IT, REPORT IT. Call the UK Modern Slavery & Exploitation Helpline on 0800 121 700
A note from Snowdrop:
Happy birthday Anna! Thank you for all that you do.
We wish all our amazing supporters who are taking on the Kilimanjaro challenge the best of luck with their training and fundraising – the countdown to August is on!
If you would like to support our work by taking on an epic adventure of your own you can contact us at fundraising@snowdropproject.co.uk for information and ideas.