‘Spotting the signs’ of modern slavery campaign

The PCC joined Suffolk Police and Ipswich Borough Council to increase community awareness of modern slavery and human trafficking with a poster campaign with the message ‘The signs aren’t always clear – Is modern slavery happening on your street?’
The artwork will be displayed on a borough council dustcart in Ipswich for the next six weeks.
Modern slavery is a reality and happens everywhere. It’s an abuse of Human Rights and effects society’s most vulnerable men, women and children.
Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore said, “Sadly modern slavery is all around us, hidden in plain sight. As I speak to people across the county it is clear many are completely unaware of the consequences of this horrendous issue. But modern slavery is something we all need to be aware of because it is happening in Suffolk and the impact of this evil crime on victims is totally devastating.
“I am very pleased to see this partnership between the Constabulary and Ipswich Borough Council, it literally gets this very important message out onto our streets.
“It is only by working together we will raise awareness of modern slavery and the abuse and injustice that is associated with this abhorrent crime and bring these evil criminals to justice.”

Detective Superintendent David Giles said: “The signs of modern slavery are often hidden from view and we are working hard with our partners to identify and support victims and bring those responsible to justice.
“The public can really play an important part in recognising the signs. I hope that this campaign, which takes that message straight to our communities, will lead to more people understanding the issues involved and reporting concerns to us.
“We have the resources in place to respond effectively and we will do all we can to stop this exploitation of often vulnerable people by organised criminals.”

Would you know how to spot the signs of Modern Day Slavery?
Physical Appearance:  Signs of physical or psychological abuse, look malnourished or unkempt, or appear withdrawn and neglected. They may have untreated injuries
Isolation:  Rarely be allowed to travel on their own, seem under the control, influence of others, rarely interact or appear unfamiliar with their neighbourhood or where they work
Poor living conditions:  Be living in dirty, cramped or overcrowded accommodation, and / or living and working at the same address
Restricted freedom of movement:  Have no identification documents, have few personal possessions and always wear the same clothes day in day out. What clothes they do wear may not be suitable for their work
Have little opportunity to move freely and may have had their travel documents retained, e.g. passports
Unusual travel times:   Be dropped off / collected for work on a regular basis either very early or late at night
Reluctant to seek help:   Avoid eye contact, appear frightened or hesitant to talk to strangers and fear law enforcers for many reasons, such as not knowing who to trust or where to get help, fear of deportation, fear of violence to them or their family.

If you have suspicions that someone is being trafficked – or to get help and seek advice – you can contact the Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700.
If you believe a person is being trafficked and is in immediate danger, you should call 999 straight away.
You can also report suspicions of trafficking by calling Suffolk Police on 101 or via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.