Coronavirus Response

The Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner has expressed concern about the impact of Coronavirus on the provision of support to victims and survivors of modern slavery. The Commissioner is working closely with NGOs, statutory bodies and government to encourage dialogue and share information:

• The Commissioner has written to the Home Office to raise her concerns. 
• The Commissioner has written to the sector to clarify information on support rates for victims and survivors.
• The Commissioner’s office has created a list of Q&As in response to queries raised at an NGO forum.
• Actions from a meeting held between the Commissioner, Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA) and NGOs on labour exploitation can be found here.
• A note from a second meeting held between the Commissioner, GLAA and NGOs can be found here.

We are collating a list of resources for the sector. Please check back regularly and contact the office should you have concerns or further resources.

Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner's Strategic Plan 2019 - 2021

Read the Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner's Strategic Plan 2019 - 2021 here.

Call for Evidence: Use of the Modern Slavery Act’s Section 45 statutory defence

The Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner has closed her call for written evidence inviting anyone with practical experience and knowledge of cases involving use of the Modern Slavery Act’s Section 45 statutory defence.

Further information, please click here.

What is modern slavery?

Modern slavery is an umbrella term encompassing slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour and human trafficking. Victims of modern slavery are unable to leave their situation of exploitation, controlled by threats, punishment, violence, coercion and deception. Slavery violates human rights, denying people of their right to life, freedom and security.