18 Oct 2014
National Policing Lead on Modern Slavery, Chief Constable Shaun Sawyer has been speaking to mark Anti-Slavery Day today (October 18)
Mr Sawyer said:
"Anti-slavery day seeks to raise awareness of modern slavery. The police service encounters this every day across England and Wales. These crimes occur in local communities therefore we remain utterly committed to tackling this abhorrent crime against humanity and this commitment requires the involvement of our partners and the public.
"Modern slavery occurs across the UK, not just in our towns and cities but also within our rural and coastal communities. Modern slavery victims are generally controlled by tactics unseen by the general public and as such are often hidden in plain sight.
"The police service works tirelessly with partner agencies 24 hours a day to identify and rescue victims, keep people safe and bring offenders to justice.
"Information from the public and other organisations is critical in helping us identify victims and anyone with information linked to modern slavery is encouraged to contact the police ‘101’, Crimestoppers ‘0800 555 111’ or the modern slavery helpline ‘0800 0121 700’."
For more information contact
ACPO Press Office
Association of Chief Police Officers
e: press.office@acpo.pnn.police.uk
Communications office
By phone: 0800 538 5058
By email: press.office@npcc.police.uk