Modern Slavery
Some three and a half years after the introduction of the legislative requirements detailed in the Modern Slavery Act 2015, the initiative to support vulnerable child trafficking victims is set to be expanded. The Act requires Local Authorities to provide independent child trafficking advocates to all children who need them. However, the planned launch of services nationally has been delayed following a review of trials with a Home Office announcement in 2015 citing that the initiative needed further 'work'. Victims of child trafficking can be subject to sexual abuse, exploitation and criminal exploitation. The scheme, which has only launched in three 'early adopter' areas (Hampshire, Greater Manchester and Wales), is set to be expanded in the West Midlands, East Midlands and Croydon. The three early adopter sites received a total of 215 referrals within the first year. Prime Minister Theresa May has announced a £5m fund to support 'innovative ways' to improve the response to child trafficking
SSS Learning Safeguarding Director
