18th October is Anti-Slavery day and there are many events taking place throughout October to highlight the issue of modern slavery.
Jackie said, “The sad case of the chinese cockle-pickers who died while working in slave conditions for a gangmaster is well known. Less well known are the many thousands who are living in slave conditions up and down the country. These include some forced into prostitution and sexual exploitation, those in forced labour and those in domestic servitude. This includes many children who once brought into the country are forced to live as domestic slaves. In many cases they have been promised a better life, have paid handsomely to get to the UK and when they do arrive they find themselves trapped in a nightmare of abuse. I am particularly concerned about children who are sent here by their families and used as domestic slaves by the family that receives them.
Given the extent of this crime we can be sure that there are victims of modern slavery here in Thurrock, most of whom will not be in the UK legally. Do you see households where there is children not going to school? Do you see people who look malnourished or appear scared. If you suspect a case of modern slavery, phone the anti-slavery helpline on 0800 0121 700. It is totally anonymous and reports will be investigated.
Slavery is closer than you think. Lets not let the perpetrators of this evil get away with this.”