'Modern Slavery is everywhere and it increases over Christmas'

Slavery was abolished in the UK in 1807. But more than 200 years on, there are still people being abused for criminal profit. The National Crime Agency says Modern Slavery is everywhere in daily life - in every village, in every town, in every city. And it's warning that cases will go up over the festive season, as people go out more and use more services.

It has brought a photographic exhibition to Birmingham New Street Station called 'Invisible People'.

Photographers, including multiple award winner Rory Carnegie, have recreated the lives of people who are modern slaves in various sectors. These include agriculture, construction, maritime, food processing, child trafficking and forced prostitution.

In many cases, victims of labour exploitation are working in hand car washes, nail bars, in food service or kitchens in restaurants and takeaways.

The hope is that people who see the installation will start to understand how prevalent modern slavery is, and notice the warning signs that someone could be a modern slave.

Hardeep Walker from the National Crime Agency told ITV Central that while Christmas does see an increase in cases of exploitation, that also means we have opportunities to spot and speak out about situations that don't feel right.

Warning signs that someone could be being exploited includes appearing malnourished, unkempt, perhaps wearing the same clothes day after day, not having the appropriate equipment for their work, or the cost of the service seeming too cheap.

Hardeep Walker is urging people to trust their instincts and report concerns.

Anyone with suspicions can call their local police force on 101 or the Modern Slavery Helpline 08000 121 700.

The free exhibition has already toured towns and cities around the UK, and can be seen at Birmingham New Street Station until Wednesday 4 December.