Modern slavery
Victims of modern slavery can be men, women and children of any age, ethnicity or faith. It is more common in vulnerable, minority or socially excluded groups.
Someone is in slavery if they are:
- forced to work, through mental or physical threat
- owned or controlled by an ‘employer’, usually through mental or physical abuse or the threat of abuse
- dehumanised, treated as a commodity or bought and sold as ‘property’
- physically constrained or has restrictions placed on their freedom of movement
How to report
You can report modern slavery on by calling 0800 0121 700 or on the Modern Slavery Helpline website.
You can also use these organisations to report any concerns:
- Thames Valley Police 999 for emergencies or 101 for non-emergencies
- Kingfisher Team on 01865 309196 for a child under 18 years
- Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to report anonymously by phone or online
- Fearless for resources and anonymous online reporting for young people
Find support if you are a victim
If you are a victim you can contact Victims First Specialist Service who can provide practical and emotional support by emailing [email protected] or calling 0300 1234 148 or 01844 487987.
Safe! Young Victims First is for young people (5 to 17 years old) or parents who would like some advice. If you think you are being exploited and need practical and emotional support call 0800 1337938 or email [email protected].
Child Sexual Exploitation
Sexual exploitation of children (under 18) is a form of modern slavery. The victim may not initially recognise they are a victim because of the grooming process. The young person may receive drugs, alcohol, gifts, money, food or accommodation as part of this grooming process as a result of them performing or others performing on them, sexual activities.
Drug dealing
Thames Valley Police define County Lines as the name given to drug dealing where organised criminal groups (OCGs) use phone lines to move and supply drugs.
Organised Criminal Gangs (OCGs) exploit vulnerable people and recruit them to distribute drugs. often referred to as ‘drug running’. They use high levels of violence and intimidation to protect the ‘county line’ and control them.