Modern slavery is a deeply troubling practice where individuals are exploited and forced to work against their will, and due to the nature of our sector, staff in our supply chain are at a higher risk of being involved.
To support the global efforts to reduce these issues and exploitation – all businesses need to do their bit – and here at Dunsters we’re ready to play our part. We’ve recently appointed a Modern Slavery Champion here at Dunsters and are working to raise awareness amongst our team and suppliers, here’s a few of the basics that will help you understand it better & identify the signs.
What is modern Slavery?
There are hundreds of definitions of modern slavery. However, all of these include aspects of control, involuntary actions and exploitation.
Modern slavery is all around us, often hidden in plain sight. People can become enslaved making our clothes, serving our food, picking our crops, working in factories, or working in houses as cooks, cleaners or nannies. Victims of modern slavery might face violence or threats, be forced into inescapable debt, or have their passport taken away and face being threatened with deportation.
What are the signs?
A recent survey suggested that four in ten people weren’t sure what modern slavery was or even identify the signs. Working in the service industry, our team come into contact with lots of staff, in different sectors – so the question is, could you recognise the signs?
The charity Anti-Slavery International lists the main signs that someone is in slavery, and these include:
- appearing to be under the control of someone else and reluctant to interact with others
- appearing frightened, withdrawn or showing signs of physical or psychological abuse
- not appearing free to leave or move around their surroundings
You can read the complete list here.
What to do if you have concerns?
If you have concerns about the welfare of any staff member, whether it be at a supplier, customer or other contact – report your concerns to our Modern Slavery Champion, Elyn Croasdale, you can do this by email to elyn.croasdale@dunstersfarm.com
Alternatively, you can contact the modern slavery & exploitation helpline, via the link below – this service is free & confidential.
