A new report has been published by Middlesex University, in partnership with the Anti Trafficking Monitoring Group, to better understand the role of Local Authorities in tackling modern slavery. Local authorities are on the frontline of the response to Modern Slavery in England and Wales, yet, many workers are unaware of their responsibility as First Responders.
The report identified several barriers to Local Authorities’ responses to Modern Slavery, including limited awareness and training, fragmented responses, and gaps in the oversight of Local Authorities’ supply chains; notwithstanding examples of good practice, such as specialist Modern Slavery teams, in some Local Authorities.
As such, the report proposes a number of improvements; namely, enhanced collaboration between Local Authorities, law enforcement and community organisations, and strengthening Local Authorities’ accountability by establishing clearer monitoring and reporting processes.
The report also proposes the development of a Preliminary Training Framework for Local Authorities, which would include basic awareness training for all staff, in-depth training for frontline workers and local councillors, and advanced training for staff making referrals to the National Referral Mechanism.
Southwell and Partners specialises in advice on Modern Slavery law and representing victims and potential victims of modern slavery.
The full report can be accessed here.
