A campaign has been launched by charity Crimestoppers in partnership with Cumbria’s Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, and Cumbria Police, to raise awareness of the many forms modern slavery takes, as well as the most telling signs.

There are fears that with lockdown restrictions continuing, many slavery related crimes will go unreported.

Anonymous information given to the charity, from concerned members of the public, allows the Police to make quick interventions to protect and safeguard some of the most vulnerable people in our community.

Peter McCall, Police and Crime Commissioner for Cumbria, said: “When many of us think of slavery, we believe it is a thing of the past. Unfortunately, that is not the case and modern slavery gangs are operating in our county.

“These gangs exploit vulnerable people with the promise of a better, more comfortable life.

“It is a community effort to recognise and report this horrific crime – let’s work together to make Cumbria a safer place for all.

“It’s really important that we all know the signs of modern slavery and if we spot it, we report either to the Police on 101 or anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers.”

Below are some of the common signs to spot for a modern slavery victim:

• Show signs of injury, abuse and malnourishment
• Look unkempt, often in the same clothing and have poor hygiene
• Be under the control and influence of others
• Live in cramped, dirty, overcrowded accommodation
• Have no access or control of their passport or identity documents
• Appear scared, avoid eye contact, seem untrusting
• Collected very early and/or returned late at night on a regular basis
• May have inappropriate clothing for the work they are performing, and/or a lack of safety equipment
• May be isolated from the local community and their family

Anyone who has suspicions can report concerns, anonymously, about modern slavery by visiting Crimestoppers-uk.org and completing the simple and secure anonymous online form or by calling 0800 555 111.

If you think someone is in immediate danger, please call the Police on 999.