- This event has passed.
Modern Slavery Business Supply Chain Brochure Launch
11th November 2020 @ 11:30 am - 12:30 pm
Businesses urged to help stamp out modern slavery in supply chains
A new modern slavery guidance for businesses is launching in Cumbria. Safer Cumbria have written the guidance to help Cumbria’s businesses tackle modern slavery within supply chains across the country.
The document covers a variety of topics including how to spot victims, how to manage the risk of modern slavery within supply chains, who is required to comply within the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and how to write a modern slavery and human trafficking statement.
The Modern Slavery Act 2015 states that certain businesses must provide a modern slavery and human trafficking statement every year. The statement covers the steps taken by the business to ensure that modern slavery does not take place within their business or supply chains. Failure to provide a statement can result in an unlimited fine.
Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, said: “When we think of slavery we believe it is a crime of the past and doesn’t take place in modern Britain but unfortunately it does.
“Human trafficking gangs lure vulnerable people with the promise of a happier, safer and sometimes wealthier life and force them to work and live in horrendous conditions.“Modern slaves can be spotted through signs such as the individual being withdrawn and lacking confidence, not wearing appropriate clothing for their role, looking tired or malnourished or working longer hours than expected.
“Businesses in Cumbria may be unknowingly using supply chains that use modern slaves – it is essential that all business owners know what to look out for within these chains so that they can report anything suspicious to the Police.
“This is a fantastic guidance that is greatly needed in our county – together we can end modern slavery in Cumbria.
“If you know of a business or a supply chain that may be involved in human trafficking and modern slavery then please report it to the Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.
Detective Chief Inspector, Craig Smith, Cumbria Constabulary’s lead for modern slavery, said:
“Modern Slavery cases continue to rise not only in Cumbria but also across the globe.
“Many of these cases are identified through the vigilance of our partners and members of the public as they become more aware and attuned to identifying victims and offenders alike.
“This guidance is targeted at assisting our many business operating within the county and I am confident that this will raise greater awareness in addition to providing support and guidance around this abhorrent crime.”
Find the full guidance at https://cumbria-pcc.gov.uk/what-we-do/victims/
