Crimestoppers bid to tackle slavery in Cumbria
Crimestoppers have set up a new campaign, working to help people in Cumbria 'Spot The Signs" of slavery in a bid to tackle the growing issue.
Statistics show a 136% national increase in information received on slavery in the past six months, compared to the previous six month period.
Information received by Cumbria Constabulary from this time stands at 111, compared to 130 for the previous year.
However, it is believed that there are many more unknown offences happening in Cumbria.
There are a variety of forms of Modern Day Slavery, which operate in public places.
The majority of cases are said to affect vulnerable people and immigrants.
Common industries for slavery are:
Agriculture
Car Washes
Construction
Maritime
Nail Bars
Prostitution
Restaurants/Takeaways
The campaign is supported by the Office of the Police, Crime Commissioner and Cumbria Constabulary.
There are many common signs of slavery that victims of abuse share.
Signs to spot include:
Show signs of injury, abuse and malnourishment
Look unkempt, often in the same clothing and have poor hygiene
Be under the control and influence of others
Live in cramped, dirty, overcrowded accommodation
Have no access or control of their passport or identity documents
Appear scared, avoid eye contact, seem untrusting
Be collected very early and/or returned late at night on a regular basis
May have inappropriate clothing for the work they are performing, and/or a lack of safety equipment
May be isolated from the local community and their family
Crimestoppers said:
Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner said:
Anyone with information of slavery should contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or through our Anonymous Online Form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.