Modern Slavery Act 2015
Modern slavery is an umbrella term used when someone is coerced or forced to do something they don’t want to do, and another person gains from this exploitation. Modern slavery encompasses slavery, servitude, human trafficking and forced labour. Victims of modern slavery are held against their will and are often unseen or unheard.
Victims can be trafficked internationally as well as between towns or counties within a country. It is estimated that there are over 40 million people in modern slavery in the world. The Home Office estimates there to be 13, 000 victims of modern slavery in the UK.
Modern slavery can include:
- labour exploitation
- sexual exploitation
- forced criminality
- domestic servitude
- forced marriage
- debt bondage
- benefit / financial fraud
- organ harvesting
Modern Slavery Statement
We have a zero tolerance approach to any form of modern slavery and are committed to ensuring effective processes are in place to safeguard against any form of modern slavery taking place within the organisation or supply chain.
Our Modern Slavery Statement 2023/2024 is made in accordance with section 54 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015.
Report a Concern
If you think someone is a victim of modern slavery or human trafficking you can make a safeguarding referral to:
- Adults: Southend-on-Sea City Council's Access Team 01702 215008 (option 5)
- Children: Southend-on-Sea City Council's MASH+ Team 01702 215007
- Emergency Duty Team 0345 606 1212 (children and adults out of hours 365 days a year)
You may also report via:
- Essex Police 101 (non-emergency) or 999 (in an emergency)
- The Modern Slavery Helpline 0800 0121 700
- The Salvation Army 24 hour confidential referral helpline 0300 303 8151
- Stop the Traffik 24 hour confidential victim helpline 0207 921 4258
Further Information
For further information regarding modern slavery and human trafficking see: