Modern slavery
Modern slavery is often a hidden crime. Victims may be too scared to disclose what has happened to them, sometimes for fear of violence to them or their family.
Some victims do not even realise that they are being exploited.
Possible signs that someone could be a victim of modern slavery include:
- their passport and other personal items being held by someone else, and not having access to their wages â or being paid very little or not all for the work they do
- working long hours â they may be dropped off and collected for work either very early or late at night, on a regular basis
- living in shared accommodation with other workers, often in poor conditions. They may also live and work from the same address
- being unable to come and go from their own home. They may not be allowed to travel on their own and rarely interact with neighbours or coworkers
- being threatened with violence or other consequences
The person may also appear unkempt and wear the same clothes day in day out. The clothes they wear may not be suitable for their work.
They might also be malnourished or have unexplained injuries, with no access to medical care.
The Modern slavery page on the H&F Council website has information on how to access support and advice and H&Fâs Modern Slavery strategy.
Report concerns about modern slavery to the police or call them on 101. In an emergency, you should always call 999.