Modern Slavery event takes place to raise awareness of exploitation

A Humber Modern Slavery Partnership event has taken place to raise awareness of exploitation. Speakers from Humberside Police and the University of Hull explained that these practices are still taking place across the Humber region.

The event, held in Hull’s Princes Quay shopping centre, brought together various local representatives from the VCFSE sector (Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise). The purpose of the event was to educate people about modern day slavery and highlight ways to spot signs and report concerns.

Andrew Smith from the University of Hull explained that very few victims or survivors of modern slavery seek prosecution. He explained that exploited people are much more likely to disclose information to trusted community groups.

Mr Smith went on to explain that the term ‘slavery’ isn’t particularly useful due to connotations with slavery of the past. “We’re not talking about shackles and chains here,” he said, explaining that in the modern context, methods of control such as threats to family, and visa issues are more common. “It’s helpful to think of it as exploitation,” he concluded.

Next to speak was Detective Sergeant Richard Kirk, who heads up Humberside Police’s Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking team. On stage, DS Kirk said: “This is happening in Humberside,” as he urged the community groups present to be on the look out for potential exploitation.

Afterwards, DS Kirk told the LDRS that working alongside community groups is essential to reaching and supporting vulnerable people. He also explained that often, exploited people from overseas can be worried that they will be punished or deported and emphasised that the police are there to support people and safeguard the vulnerable.

He explained that people’s desire to get goods cheaply can drive exploitation and said people could chat to staff casually if they had any concerns. “It doesn’t necessarily have to be a professional curiosity, but just curiosity as a human being,” he said.

DS Kirk estimated there are currently between 20 and 25 ‘pop-up brothels’ in Hull alone. He explained that exploited women are brought to such places and then moved elsewhere on a ‘circuit’.