Signal Modern slavery referrals reach 4,758 in Q3 2024

Summary

The report judges that illicit activities including modern slavery and human trafficking are increasing in the UK, citing a rise in national referrals for exploitation. Between July and September 2024, 4,758 potential victims of modern slavery were referred to the Home Office. That was 10% more than the 4,312 of the preceding quarter and 15% more than the 4,132 of the same quarter in 2023. The report explains that serious and organised crime seeks profit through the exploitation of people as well as trade in goods, and that exploited people are often from overseas. It also expects organised criminals to keep targeting the most vulnerable through exploitation, trafficking and violence, linking this to the chronic risk of disproportionate impacts on vulnerable persons.