Scotland Crimestoppers launches a campaign this week to tackle human trafficking and raise awareness of the more serious links it has to organised crime. [10 April 2012]

Human trafficking is a multi-dimension phenomena operated by serious organised criminal gangs and independent opportunists, taking many forms including sexual exploitation, forced labour and domestic slavery. The impoverished, socially disadvantaged and children and women are those who are at most risk of being exploited.

A number of reports have been published over the last year which have highlighted that the level of awareness about this type of crime is variable.

The campaign is looking to target people who may in their day-to-day lives come into contact with people who are trafficked, whether it is where they live, where they work or travelling in their community.  Few understand the consequences and serious implications behind human trafficking, the human misery and the fear which prevents people from speaking up about it. The campaign will specifically encourage people to pass on information and report concerns.

Kate Jackson, Scotland National Manager for Crimestoppers said: “It is really important for people to realise that they do not have to suffer this vile trade. Crimestoppers is an independent charity, is not part of the police and we can guarantee anonymity to people who contact us with information. We are not interested in who you are; it’s what you know that’s important and your call could save someone from this abuse.

“Anyone with information about human trafficking or slavery should call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the online anonymous form on www.crimestoppers-uk.org. With the public’s help we can make big steps in cracking down on this type of crime.”

Detective Chief Inspector Drew Ferguson, Strathclyde Police, Public Protection Unit said:  “We fully support the forthcoming Human Trafficking campaign, aimed at raising the awareness of this issue and its links to criminals within organised crime groups who are cashing in on the vulnerabilities of others.

“The anonymous intelligence gathered will provide a platform for the Force to take action against those who are profiting from this silent industry and ensure that they are held to account and that victims are provided with the support they deserve and require.”

Glasgow Community and Safety Services welcomes this new campaign against this hideous abuse of women and quotes: “Our TARA Service provides a support and advocacy service to women who have been trafficked for commercial sexual exploitation from across Scotland.  Help from TARA includes assistance to access safe accommodation, health care, legal advice and intensive emotional support, which is vital after such an ordeal.   In order to tackle the demand created by purchasers of sex and the criminal networks that organise Human Trafficking, Scotland needs to take a zero tolerance approach.  GCSS works closely with Strathclyde Police and fully supports the aims of this campaign. We believe this is an important step forward in improving the awareness of Human Trafficking and will help to create a hostile environment for criminal organisations operating in Scotland”.

“ Migrant Help, as one of the two agencies in Scotland who support victims of human trafficking, is pleased to be involved in the campaign to highlight the problem of what is, effectively, modern day slavery. We hope that the campaign will encourage people who are affected by, or who have suspicions about, human trafficking to contact Crimestoppers to report their concerns. This can be done in complete anonymity. The contact details of the support agencies involved are also given so that people requiring help and assistance can make contact with them directly.”

For more information please contact Media Officer Kieran Theivam on 0208 835 3727 or email Kieran.theivam@crimestoppers-uk.org