Jane Hutt AM, Deputy Minister and Chief Whip
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
On 24 April 2019, Unseen published their Modern Slavery Helpline 2018 Annual Assessment. The Assessment covers all reports of modern slavery incidents made in 2018 from across the UK.
The Helpline was established in October 2016, as the single point of contact for all issues related to modern slavery in the UK. The approach is based on the principle of partnership working and collaboration to tackle this appalling crime.
Unseen, work with a range of partners including the UK and devolved Governments, UK Police Forces, the National Crime Agency, UK Border Force, the Gang Masters and Labour Abuse Authority, Non-Government Organisations, community groups and the business community. Unseen is working to build a better understanding of how modern slavery is affecting our communities and our people so that effective and timely action can be taken to address the problem.
Unseen wish to reach those who are unable or sometimes unwilling to come forward and report their circumstances. In 2018, Unseen expanded their communication channels into the Helpline through the introduction of the Unseen App which was developed in partnership with BT.
In 20018, calls to the Helpline were up by 62% from 2017. The latest report confirms that 6,012 were received resulting in 7,121 potential victims being identified; 264 potential victims were from Wales. Following further examination, the calls initiated 1,849 Modern Slavery cases, which included 63 cases in Wales.
The Helpline is self-funded and as a result is clearly and importantly able to retain its independence and confidentiality. Aspects that are paramount in it operating effectively. .
Our Wales Anti-Slavery Leadership Group works closely with Unseen to help promote the Helpline, which aims to increase levels of reporting and subsequently leads to more victims being identified, rescued, and where possible to the prosecution of offenders.
The Welsh Government recognises the very important support the Helpline provides to victims. My officials will continue to work in partnership with Unseen to further promote the Helpline and the vital contribution it makes in tackling a crime that impacts so devastatingly on peoples’ lives.
MODERN SLAVERY HELPLINE – 08000 121 700
Link to the Modern Slavery Helpline 2018 Annual Assessment
https://www.modernslaveryhelpline.org/uploads/20190424042048980.pdf