Victims of modern slavery are set to receive more timely support as the UK government unveils new measures to clear the backlog of modern slavery cases. The government has committed to eliminating the current delays within two years, bringing much-needed clarity to thousands of victims, including women, men, and children, many of whom have endured sexual, physical, and economic abuse.
At present, many victims face long waits for confirmation of their status as a modern slavery victim through the national referral mechanism, where a “conclusive grounds” decision is required. These delays can prolong uncertainty and exacerbate mental health issues, leaving vulnerable individuals in a state of limbo.
In a bid to speed up the process, the government has announced the recruitment of 200 additional Home Office staff who will be tasked with handling cases more efficiently. These new recruits will be in their roles by early 2025, allowing thousands of victims to receive faster decisions and begin rebuilding their lives. The government’s commitment was outlined during an event marking national Anti-Slavery Week, where the Minister for Safeguarding, Jess Phillips, addressed delegates from charity organisations and law enforcement agencies.
Speaking at the event, Phillips pledged that tackling modern slavery would remain one of her top priorities. She also emphasised the need to drive up prosecution rates against perpetrators of this heinous crime, promising reform to the modern slavery system to better meet the needs of survivors.
Phillips said, “For too long, modern slavery survivors and the harrowing experiences they have lived through have not been given the attention and support they deserve. This is going to change. The actions I have announced today are a first step towards putting survivors first, eradicating the backlog of modern slavery cases to give victims the clarity and peace of mind they need to move on with their lives.”
She added that while there was still much more to be done, the government would use all available resources to support survivors and hold those responsible for these crimes accountable.
The new measures have been welcomed by organisations that work closely with victims. Major Kathy Betteridge, Director for Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery at The Salvation Army, praised the announcement, calling it a “positive step” towards prioritising the needs of survivors.
“We welcome today’s announcement as a positive step towards prioritising the needs of survivors of modern slavery. Far too often, we see individuals in our support services whose recovery is delayed because they feel trapped in limbo, unable to move forward with their lives while awaiting decisions on their cases,” Betteridge said.
She added that the announcement shows the government is actively listening to survivors and those who support them, and she looked forward to further collaboration with the minister to ensure the UK remains a leader in supporting modern slavery survivors.
The pledge marks a renewed effort by the government to tackle modern slavery, with a focus on both supporting survivors and pursuing those who profit from exploitation.
