Merseyside Police has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling modern slavery and exploitation as part of Anti-Slavery Week 2025.
Throughout this week, officers will be working alongside partners including immigration enforcement, Trading Standards and local charities to raise awareness and improve victim support.
Detective Sergeant Gemma Ellerton said: “Modern slavery is a devastating crime that strips individuals of their dignity and freedom.
“It affects men, women and children across Merseyside, and we are determined to identify and support victims while bringing perpetrators to justice.
“It’s a common myth that slavery is a thing of the past but it’s very much a present-day reality, even here in Merseyside. Victims are often hidden in plain sight, and it’s vital that we all know how to spot the signs and take action.”
Modern slavery is a serious crime that sees victims exploited, controlled, and often threatened or punished to prevent them from reporting crime.
“Modern slavery is a deeply harmful and hidden crime that devastates lives and communities,” said Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, Cllr Jeanie Bell.
“In Merseyside, we are taking a proactive, partnership-led approach to tackle exploitation head-on. Through our strategic network, we’ve developed and delivered a robust plan of action—focusing on victim support, offender accountability, and frontline training.
“We’ve made real progress, from increasing prosecutions under modern slavery legislation to rolling out specialist training across police departments. But we know there is more to do.”
They are encouraging members of the public to learn the signs of exploitation, which may include individuals appearing withdrawn, anxious or fearful as well as their movement being restricted.
They may also have a lack of personal possessions, poor living or working conditions and unusual travel arrangements, such as being dropped off or picked up at odd hours.
There are a number of local charities such as The Clewer Initiative who support modern slavery awareness and national charity Unseen.
To report a suspicion or get advice you can contact the Modern Slavery Helpline confidentially on 08000 121 700.
You can also report it to Merseyside Police’s online crime reporting service.
