Spotting the Signs

Trafficking is often hidden away and victims are rarely allowed out without being closely guarded by their captors. But there are some signs that we can all look out for. Hope for Justice’s director of investigations, John, talks about the UK’s potential trafficking hotspots and why it is important for people to remain vigilant.

Are there trafficking hotspots in the UK?

Some areas of the country have well run sex industries and the girls working in the brothels are there by choice. Trafficking is often most frequent in tourist areas favoured for mini-breaks and bachelor parties. There is a demand for cheap sex in these areas and this often results in poorly organised and opportunistic prostitution. It differs from place to place, but there can be a pattern of trafficking in areas where vulnerable women looking for work are exploited. There are no hard and fast rules though. It is just important for people to remain vigilant and aware of the issue wherever they are.

Who is most likely to come across it?

There are often people working alongside trafficked victims who should be a vital source of information. They may be in a legitimate paid job, but notice that one group of workers in a factory or on a construction site have someone speaking for them, organising them and bringing them to and from work. These workers might be afraid to or unwilling to open up with other people around them. Some of the men who pay for sex in brothels will come into contact with trafficked girls at some point. If a girl has been trafficked she might try to ask for help, but will be afraid because if her trafficker finds out she will be punished. Any sex worker who is crying, is not allowed out, shows signs of ill treatment, or is from overseas and thought she was coming to work on a student visa is likely to be a victim of trafficking.

What should someone do if they suspect trafficking?

They should report it to Crimestoppers or the Police so that it can be properly responded to. If you are unsure about what you have seen, Hope for Justice can give you advice on what to do next. It is important to remember that traffickers are likely to be part of a highly organised and brutal criminal gang. Never put yourself or anyone else at risk but let the proper authorities deal with it.

Why is it important to be vigilant?

Trafficking investigations start with intelligence. We need people to come forward with information if they suspect someone is being trafficked. I would encourage everyone to be vigilant and aware of what is around them. In reality human trafficking is hidden from mainstream society. It is rare that the average person on the street would be aware of having witnessed something important. But if by making 1 000 people aware of the signs just one person spots something that leads to a rescue it is worthwhile. The more people we can make aware the more people WILL be rescued as a result. Together as a group we are a huge part of the answer.

Raise awareness, encourage vigilance and have the courage to make a report even if you are unsure. You might provide some small piece of intelligence which completes the picture for law enforcement agencies. A rescued life might be the result, so let’s all play our part and watch out for the signs of trafficking.