106 handed in during surrender
The training will ensure victims get the best possible support from staff and organisations who may come into contact with victims of human trafficking and modern slavery and is delivered by Hope for Justice, an international charity seeking to end modern day slavery in our lifetime.
With the first event taking place at Preston Town Hall, similar sessions are being held over the next two months in Blackpool, Skelmersdale, Blackburn, Lancaster and Burnley. The training also includes a local case study delivered by an officer from Lancashire Constabulary.
The sessions are already fully booked, with around 50 delegates from across the public sector and non-governmental organisations attending each.
Clive Grunshaw, Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner said:
“Tackling modern slavery and human trafficking is a key priority for us in Lancashire, with training like this a really important part of the work being done to help those being exploited and bring offenders to justice.
“Building awareness around the county so more people can spot the signs and report anything that concerns them is crucial, helping Lancashire police take necessary action to protect the vulnerable victims we know are out there.”
The first training session also saw the launch of a new pocket guide to help frontline professionals spot the signs and know what action to take.
The Commissioner added: “I am proud that the resources I have put into this fight places us at the forefront of anti-trafficking work, making our communities safer.
“By working together, sharing information with the authorities and supporting victims we can tackle this serious and often hidden crime.”
DI Jane Newton, Lancashire Constabulary said:
“These training sessions facilitated by Hope for Justice, are a valuable step to train professionals from a variety of organisations, to identifying the signs and symptoms of Modern Day Slavery.
“Providing the awareness in this area of business, will increase the confidence of the individual, in order to approach potential victims of this crime and reach out with trained support.
“Only by acknowledging that this form of criminality is taking place within our communities and appreciating that everyone has a role to play can we make real progress and proactively support the most vulnerable in our society.”
Sara Squires, UK Training Manager at anti-slavery charity Hope for Justice, said:
“At Hope for Justice, we know that awareness leads to action, and training leads to an improved response. More than half of referrals to Hope for Justice of potential victims of trafficking come from organisations we have trained, and many of those referrals lead to rescues.
“Better understanding among police forces of the indicators of modern slavery and the best ways to respond to victims will change the landscape of anti-slavery efforts in the UK, by increasing prosecutions, deterring traffickers and supporting survivors.
“It is fantastic to see such strong backing for these efforts from the Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire and from Lancashire Constabulary, with whom we work regularly.”
