FEATURE
BREAKING FREE Major Jane Kimberley asked Anti-Trafficking Co-ordinator Major Anne Read about Salvation Army involvement with victims of human trafficking in the UK and beyond
WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THE VICTIMS OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND WHERE DO THEY COME FROM?
Human trafficking is a global problem affecting men, women and children. Although there has been an emphasis on trafficked women, some people might be surprised to learn that 40 per cent of trafficked people in the UK are male victims caught up in labour exploitation. National news stories in recent months have highlighted their plight. A further 40 per cent are female victims of the sex trade and the remaining 20 per cent of female victims are exploited in other ways. HOW IS THE TERRITORY HELPING TRAFFICKING VICTIMS?
The Salvation Army in the territory is now in the third year of a Government contract to manage support for all adult victims of human trafficking in England and Wales. Scotland and Ireland have other arrangements. The aims and outcomes of the programme are in accordance with UK obligations under the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings. The programme comprises three stages: first steps – the escape from exploitation; secure accommodation; recovery and reflection. Almost 1,500 people have entered the service since the contract started. A 24/7 confidential helpline 030 0303 8151 is open to organisations and individuals who want to find help for trafficked people. Referrals are assessed and may be accommodated in safe houses which are run by The Salvation Army and other charitable organisations. 10
Salvationist 5 October 2013
Support is given according to individual needs and may include legal advice, healthcare, counselling, education opportunities, contact with families and sometimes repatriation. First responders are volunteers who meet and interview the referrals. By the time this happens a trafficked person may already have been seen by police or border agency staff. Sometimes the interview will be held in prison because a person might have been wrongly criminalised as a result of trafficking. WHAT PLANS DO YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE?
In co-operation with IHQ plans are being made for the launch of a European network. The aim of the network is for every territory in Europe to have named contacts to aid repatriations, share resources and information and generally support each other in this challenging area of ministry by responding to immediate needs. ARE THERE ANY WAYS THAT PEOPLE LINKED TO THE SALVATION ARMY CAN GET INVOLVED?
Anti-Slavery Day is on 18 October and was created by an Act of Parliament in 2010 to raise awareness of modern-day slavery and help stamp it out. Corps might consider holding a Freedom Sunday, or using the material prepared for a day of prayer which has been distributed to corps and divisions. Another way that Salvationists and friends can offer support is by being willing to occasionally offer
transport to trafficked people on their way to a place of safety in the UK. This involves a driver and an escort and could be required at any time. Feedback from volunteers involved in this service has been positive. Some valued the opportunity to put their faith into action. For a trafficking victim who has faced abuse and turmoil, the driver and escort could be the first people to show human kindness, compassion and care. To find out more about helping with transport, speak to your corps officer, or line manager who will liaise with a divisional co-ordinator. For more information visit www. salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/trafficking