A Decade of Dignity: A New Vision to End Modern Slavery in the UK

We’re proud to have contributed to Decade of Dignity: A Strategic Vision for Eradicating Modern Slavery in the UK, alongside a coalition of leading anti-slavery organisations working across the sector. 

At Snowdrop, we see every day the reality behind the systems. Over the past five years in particular, we have seen a clear erosion of modern slavery prevention — with gaps in support and protection leaving our clients and other survivors at continued risk of exploitation. 

This report reflects a shared concern across the sector: that the UK’s current response is no longer working as it should. Weak enforcement of existing policies, fragmented systems, and recent policies that create barriers to support have allowed exploitation to persist. At the same time, these policies are creating additional barriers to recovery, making it harder for survivors to rebuild their lives. 

Decade of Dignity sets out a practical, long-term vision for change that focuses on: 

• stronger corporate accountability  

• a more effective criminal justice response  

• a system centered on survivors’ long-term recovery  

• a joined-up national approach to tackling child exploitation  

Together, these changes aim to prevent exploitation before it happens, disrupt criminal networks, and ensure survivors are supported with dignity and stability. 

Crucially, the report also highlights the importance of lived experience in shaping policy, recognising that meaningful, long-term change must be informed by those who have navigated these systems first-hand. 

This is something we have long advocated for at Snowdrop, both through our frontline services and our involvement in programmes like the IMSA pilot, recognising that recovery doesn’t happen quickly, and short-term interventions alone are not enough. 

“Long-term support is crucial for any survivor's recovery. Without it, you may as well not have been rescued at all.”

– Sabah, Snowdrop client (name changed)

This is a pivotal moment. Without sustained leadership and coordinated action, the gaps we are already seeing will continue to widen. But with the right commitment, there is a real opportunity to strengthen the UK’s response and better protect those at risk. 

We are hopeful that this report will be taken seriously by the government and lead to lasting changes that benefit survivors of modern slavery for years to come. Every survivor deserves protection, belief and the opportunity to thrive. 

Read the full report here.