A RECORD number of potential slavery victims were referred to Dorset Police last year, new figures show.
Recent Home Office figures show 97 potential victims of modern slavery – which includes any form of human trafficking, slavery, servitude or forced labour – were referred to the force in 2023.
This was up from 91 referrals the year before and is the highest number since comparable records began in 2018.
Dorset Police said it is “committed” to tackling modern slavery and it is doing “all we can” to encourage reporting of the offence.
But Victoria Tecca, from the Modern Slavery and Human Rights Policy and Evidence Centre, said the statistics overall show “the harsh reality of modern slavery today”.
She said: “Thousands of people are trapped in situations they can’t get out of, exploited in harsh conditions, facing threats, violence and intimidation.”
A spokesman for Dorset Police said: “We recognise that modern slavery is sadly an increasing concern and it is something that we take very seriously.
“We also know that labour and sexual exploitation present emerging threats within Dorset and we are taking action to identify those groups involved in this criminal activity and safeguard victims.”
He said this includes a dedicated county lines management team to focus on safeguarding, every officer going through dedicated vulnerability training with emphasis on modern slavery and working closely with other forces and law enforcement agencies in the region to share information.
The Home Office figures also show 50 children aged under 17 being referred to Dorset Police – a number which Ms Tecca said is “particularly troubling”.
Dorset Police added: “We are committed to supporting children who are linked to modern day slavery, with police and social care specialists working to identify what help they need and how partners can come together to support them. This includes bespoke services that are available through the National Referral Mechanism.
“Members of the public can assist in our efforts by learning about the signs and indicators of modern slavery and reporting any concerns to us.
“For more information about the signs of modern slavery and how to report it visit https://www.dorset.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/ms/modern-slavery/.”
A Home Office spokesman said: "We are committed to tackling all forms of modern slavery, including for individuals in the UK and children. That is why we are removing protections for criminals and those who make false claims."
He added: "Decision makers consider all available evidence to determine whether a case should be referred to the system.
"This ensures victims promptly receive the support they need to rebuild their lives, whilst protecting the system from those who seek to misuse it."
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