Modern slavery is a serious crime. It involves people being exploited for someone else’s gain, often through threats, violence or manipulation. It can happen anywhere, including in homes and neighbourhoods just like ours.

What does modern slavery look like?

Victims might be:

  • Forced to work without pay
  • Kept in poor living conditions
  • Controlled by others and unable to leave
  • Children being used or harmed
  • Sometimes, people are made to live in overcrowded homes where they don’t feel safe.
  • You might notice something that doesn’t feel right - and that’s important.

What to look out for

If you notice any of the following, it could be a sign that someone needs help:

  • A home that’s overcrowded or in poor condition
  • People who seem afraid or unwilling to speak
  • Children who seem to be living in unsafe situations.

You don’t need to be sure, just concerned.

What to do if you're worried

If you think someone might be a victim of modern slavery, please report it, or let us know. We’ll take it seriously and make sure the right support is in place.

Never try to confront anyone yourself, it could put you and others at risk.

Need to contact us? 

Email: safeguarding@southernhousing.org.uk

Tel: 0300 0200 538*

*This telephone number is available between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. Please ring your local authority if you need to report a safeguarding issue outside of these hours. If it's an emergency, please call 999.

IMPORTANT: If the person is in immediate danger, call the most appropriate emergency service on 999.

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