Spotting the Signs
It takes just one person to speak out about what they’ve seen to potentially free someone from modern slavery.
If you have concerns about a property or a person, call the Modern Slavery & Exploitation Helpline anonymously on 08000 121 700. You can also report your suspicions online here.
If you have concerns about a child or young person in South Yorkshire, you can contact the Sheffield Safeguarding Hub by calling 0114 273 4855. You can also contact the Independent Child Trafficking Guardianship service on 0800 043 4303 or by clicking here.
If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call the emergency services on 999.
Modern slavery is often described as being hidden in plain sight. Familiarising yourself with the indicators helps you remain vigilant for signs that someone may be being exploited.
What are the signs of modern slavery?
Behaviours / Appearance
Those in modern slavery may:
- Not have possession or access to their ID
- Not know their address
- Have their movement controlled by someone else
- Not be able to communicate freely with others (either due to language or someone else communicating for them)
- Be fearful or distrustful of authorities
- Work excessively long hours
- Show signs of physical or emotional abuse
Properties / Accommodation
You might notice strange activity at an address. The following may be indicators of modern slavery:
- Many people coming and going at unusual times
- Someone regularly coming to the address to pick people up and bring them back again
- Regularly overflowing bins
- You cannot see into any of the windows
- Pungent smells coming from the property
- Unusual noises
Working Conditions
Be aware that someone in modern slavery could be working alongside someone who is not in modern slavery.
Those in modern slavery may:
- Not speak any, or have limited, English
- Live somewhere connected to their employment
- Seem fearful and undernourished
- Not have access to their documents
- Have their movement to and from work controlled by another
- Act as if controlled by another
- Not receive any or total wages
- Not have a contract or access to the contract
