Information for partner organisations
The following lists detail the information that law enforcement agencies may find useful to record during an investigation.
And will also assist partner organisations to provide the victim with appropriate care and assistance.
Information checklist
- detailed descriptions of those involved where the victims are working and/or living
- other relevant locations
- methods used to control/manipulate the victim
- the length of time this has been happening for
- details of any transport used
- travel routes/methods
- financial information
- documents used
- method of recruitment
- national ties
Assisting victims
Do:
- always maintain a victim centred approach when dealing with potential victims
- take the victim to a place of safety where they feel comfortable to talk freely
- speak to victims individually and keep them separate from potential suspects
- keep multiple victims separate to allow them to give their account
- try to build a rapport and trust, dispelling any fear of law enforcement
- be aware that a victim may be suffering from stress or mental health problems brought on by their circumstances
- assess and arrange for any medical needs to be addressed
- look out for signs of any verbal or non-verbal communication between potential victims and suspects and make a note of them
- take account of cultural or religious views the victim may have
- give the victim as much information as you can and, if they consent to enter the National Referral Mechanism, explain what will happen next
- take steps to prevent further contact between the trafficker and their victim(s) by offering support/assistance through the service providers within the National Referral Mechanism
- be aware of the opportunities to gather information relating to, or evidence of, any offences to include obtaining identity documents, travel documents, financial information and communication devices where practical and possible to do so
Don't:
- expect victims to disclose immediately. Some may not know they have been trafficked or subjected to forced labour, some may have been told to lie and/or still be in fear of reprisals to them or their families
- make judgements if they have been complicit in part of their circumstances or work
- use unofficial interpreters or friends of victims to interpret, they may have their own agenda
- treat victims as suspects or immigration offenders
- expect victims to have access to travel or identity documents and if any are presented check they are legitimate
- seek to obtain any formal statement at the initial contact unless exceptional circumstances apply
Find out more...
Human trafficking, forced labour and debt bondage: Information on the different elements of modern slavery
Spot the signs: Indicators that someone may be a victim of human trafficking, forced labour or debt bondage
Who can help: Organisations to contact for advice or in an emergency
Labour exploitation – reports and resources: Publications and documents from other organisations
Modern Slavery Act 2015: Legislation to tackle trafficking and slavery in the UK
GOV.UK: Brings together documents and promotional material related to the government’s work to end modern slavery
Modern slavery strategy: Sets out the joint government, agencies and partners approach to fight modern slavery