Understanding and Responding to Modern Slavery within the Homelessness Sector

Modern slavery is a crime that affects thousands of people in the United Kingdom and millions around the world. It is an injustice that exploits the most vulnerable in society, and anecdotal evidence from the homelessness sector suggests that homeless people and rough sleepers are being targeted by trackers. As there is currently no national database or recording mechanism for this phenomenon, and despite the best efforts of organisations working in this field, the response to date has not been effective. This report aims to increase our understanding of modern slavery within the homelessness sector, thus improving our response – both of which are vital if we hope to shelter and support those in need.

The similarity in vulnerabilities of those who are homeless and victims of modern slavery, as detailed in this report, is eye-opening. Although the anti-slavery sector has known of the prevalence of homelessness among victims, and the homelessness sector has been aware of slavery among clients, the two sectors have previously had little coordination. Findings and recommendations in this report therefore aim to fill a gap that has long required recognition.

Publication Date: 
2017
Location: 
London, United Kingdom