Understanding Exploitation
Modern slavery and criminal exploitation can affect people of any age, background or nationality.
Exploitation occurs when someone uses coercion, control, manipulation or deception to benefit from another person.
Many victims do not immediately recognise what is happening to them.
What Is Modern Slavery?
Modern slavery is an umbrella term that includes:
- forced labour;
- domestic servitude;
- human trafficking;
- sexual exploitation;
- criminal exploitation;
- debt bondage.
It involves the control of one person by another for personal or financial gain.
What Is Criminal Exploitation?
Criminal exploitation occurs when someone is manipulated, pressured or coerced into criminal activity.
This may include:
- transporting drugs;
- storing drugs or weapons;
- moving money through bank accounts;
- theft or fraud;
- other illegal activities.
Often individuals are targeted because they are vulnerable, isolated or experiencing financial difficulties.
What Is County Lines?
County Lines refers to organised criminal groups using dedicated phone lines to distribute drugs and exploit vulnerable individuals.
Although often associated with children, adults and university students can also be targeted.
Warning signs may include:
- unexplained money or gifts;
- pressure to travel;
- secrecy around activities;
- fear of particular individuals;
- being asked to hold money or packages.
Signs Someone May Be Being Exploited
You may notice:
- sudden changes in behaviour;
- unexplained absences;
- fearfulness or anxiety;
- financial control by another person;
- reluctance to speak openly;
- signs of intimidation or coercion;
- unexplained accommodation arrangements.
A single indicator does not necessarily mean exploitation is occurring, but patterns should not be ignored.
Housing and Labour Exploitation
International students, migrant communities and those experiencing financial hardship may be particularly vulnerable to:
- unsafe housing arrangements;
- illegal employment practices;
- withholding of wages;
- threats relating to immigration status;
- excessive working hours;
- coercive living arrangements.
Everyone has the right to be treated fairly and safely.
What Should I Do?
If you are concerned about yourself or another person:
Seek Advice
Report a Concern
Contact Safeguarding
Contact Emergency Services if Someone Is at Immediate Risk
You do not need proof before raising concerns.
Remember
Exploitation often relies on secrecy, fear and isolation.
Seeking advice early can help prevent harm.