Human trafficking exists within the UK but often goes unnoticed. It is a growing problem, with a recent government report showing that the number of human trafficking victims in the UK has risen by more than 50 per cent last year.
BCHA and the Purple Teardrop Campaign are hosting a conference on Human Trafficking in response to the growing need to raise awareness of this problem amongst front-line professionals, and ensure that people are able to recognise and respond to the signs.
The conference will provide an understanding about the journey someone will experience once they have been identified as a victim of human trafficking, and the support that is available to these victims. Attendees will come away with the knowledge of how to recognise the signs, and how and who to refer potential victims to.
Major Anne Read, The Salvation Army’s Anti-Trafficking Response Co-ordinator will be facilitating the day, while speakers will include a range of professionals from organisations including Barnardos, Unseen UK and Love 146.
The conference is being held on 10 December in Bournemouth, 10am – 4pm. Take advantage of the early bird offer – book before 10 November and pay just £40.
Mandy Goodenough, Head of Children, Young People and Families at BCHA, commented: “Through working with victims, we see first hand just how devastating the effects of human trafficking can be. The horrors faced by victims, which may include being sexually exploited, forced into labour or being made to commit criminal offences, leave a lasting impact on people. The physical, mental and emotional scars will stay with them forever.
“As well as the police, there is a need for other front-line professionals and employees of local authorities, non-governmental organisations and charities to be aware of the signs of human trafficking and be able to respond to these. Together we can work to end the trafficking of hundreds of men, women and children every year.”
