What is Modern Slavery?
Someone is in slavery if they are:
Forced to work / owned or controlled by an 'employer' / dehumanised / treated as a commodity or property / have restrictions placed on their freedom of movement.
Did you know?
It is estimated that over 50 million people are affected by modern slavery worldwide
In 2024 they were over 350 potential victims identified in Hampshire and Isle of Wight
One in four victims of modern slavery are children
New strategy for 2023-2026 launched
The Modern Slavery Partnership (MSP) has set out how it will combat modern slavery working in partnership, raise awareness of modern slavery, identify and support victims of slavery and trafficking and relentlessly pursue and disrupt those committing modern slavery in its updated strategy.
The number of suspected modern slavery victims in the UK has increased, with more than 13,000 potential sufferers of trafficking, slavery and forced labour identified. Potential cases referred to Hampshire Constabulary increased form 195 in 2019 to 253 till June 2023.
What can I do?
Be aware that slavery may exist in your neighbourhood, in your business, in your community, and in your county. Those trapped within slavery may attend the same school as your children, they may be cooking your food at the local restaurant, they may be painting your nails at the local nail bar, or they may be packing the fruit you eat. It is everyone's responsibility to look for slavery and report any suspicions or incidents – working together, we can stop it happening.
The partnership
Find out more about how we are tackling modern slavery across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
Rights & responsibilities
Find out more about human rights and how we can protect the most vulnerable by working together.