Dramatic rise in reports of modern slavery and exploitation in Notts as criminals capitalise on pandemic

Nottinghamshire organisations working to combat modern slavery have seen a significant rise in reports of exploitation during the coronavirus pandemic.
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Cases flagged to the national referral mechanism have risen 37 per cent compared with the same period last year, as experts say perpetrators are evolving new methods of exploitation and ways to launder the proceeds.

Phil Northall, from the University of Nottingham’s Rights Lab, said: “COVID-19 is clearly having devastating impacts everywhere.

"In relation to modern slavery in Nottinghamshire it is putting even greater pressure on already stretched services, opening up new opportunities for criminals and creating more vulnerabilities for people to become exploited."

Reports of illegal exploitation were up 37 per cent on 2019 levels as public services prioritised the coronavirus pandemic.Reports of illegal exploitation were up 37 per cent on 2019 levels as public services prioritised the coronavirus pandemic.
Reports of illegal exploitation were up 37 per cent on 2019 levels as public services prioritised the coronavirus pandemic.

This month marks ten years since the Anti-Slavery Day Act was passed in effort to address all forms of slavery, human trafficking and exploitation.

In that time, organisations across the county have formed the Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Modern Slavery Partnership (NNMSP), involving local councils, the police force, and a range of community organisations.

The partnership has identified increasing levels of child criminal exploitation, while labour exploitation is the most common form of modern slavery in Nottinghamshire.

John Robinson, chief executive of Newark and Sherwood District Council and chair of the NNMSP, said: “It is disturbing that at a time when so many people are already struggling with the Covid pandemic, some individuals are using it as an opportunity to exploit the most vulnerable.

“Modern slavery is on the increase and while it may not be at the forefront of many peoples’ minds right now, it’s important that we remain vigilant.”

He added: “We must all play our part and protect our whole community from something that, quite frankly, should not exist in our modern day world.”

Anyone with concerns about a potential case of exploitation or modern slavery can call a free, independent, and confidential helpline on 08000 121700.

If you suspect that someone is at immediate risk of harm you should always dial 999.