Rough sleepers at risk of falling victim to modern slavery, report warns

By The Press Association26th January 2017News EnglandAusterity, Homelessness, Modern Slavery, News England, Poverty / Austerity, Vulnerable Adults

Rough sleepers are at risk of falling victim to modern slavery, a report has warned.

Homeless people were found to be vulnerable to rogue employers offering work and accommodation – only to be left exploited in appalling conditions.

Kevin Hyland, the Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner, commissioned a study to explore the links between slavery and homelessness.

A survey carried out as part of the inquiry found that 64% of homelessness organisations had come across potential cases of modern slavery.

Victims of modern slavery were also at risk of becoming homeless if no long-term support was provided to them, according to the report from charity The Passage.

Mr Hyland said: “We must do more to safeguard our country’s most vulnerable people.

“This report aims to increase our understanding of modern slavery within the homelessness sector, thus improve our response – both of which are vital if we hope to shelter and shield those in need.”

In 2013, research by the Home Office estimated that there were between 10,000 and 13,000 potential victims of modern slavery.

Prime Minister Theresa May welcomed the new report, saying it “highlights the need for the Government, local authorities and law enforcement to work together to stamp out this barbaric crime”.

The paper makes 12 recommendations including closer working between local authorities and police to raise awareness of modern slavery.

Mick Clarke, chief executive of The Passage, said: “It is our hope that this report acts as a catalyst to bring about the systemic change required to address this crime.”