Raising Awareness of Modern Slavery
Soroptimist International of The Fylde has campaigned on humanitarian issues for many years, often working behind the scenes to raise awareness and support projects that challenge injustice. One of the most urgent issues we continue to highlight is modern slavery.
Although many people imagine slavery as something from the past, or as an issue confined to other countries, the reality is far closer to home. Modern slavery takes many forms, including human trafficking, sexual exploitation, forced labour, and domestic servitude. Victims are often recruited under false promises, then trapped by coercion, isolation or fear. Sadly, exploitation can occur in any community, including our own.
Research shows that four people are trafficked into slavery every minute. One in five women worldwide are victims of rape. These are not distant statistics, they reflect a global problem that also impacts towns and cities across the UK. Police and frontline services have warned that trafficking is not confined to major cities, it happens in communities like ours, often hidden in industries such as food production, hospitality or care work.
As Soroptimists, we are committed to raising awareness and helping to drive change. Across the UK and internationally, initiatives include awareness campaigns, training for taxi drivers and transport workers, posters in public places, and petitions to end exploitative practices such as sex advertising. Campaigns such as the Purple Teardrop Campaignprovide valuable information and resources for those who want to learn more.
At Fylde Soroptimists, we continue to combine awareness raising with practical action, supporting women and girls locally through grants, mentoring and partnerships with organisations that provide frontline support. By highlighting modern slavery, we aim to ensure that no one turns a blind eye to injustice.
Slavery is not a crime of the past, it is a crime of today. And it is only by working together, raising our voices, and supporting those affected that we can help bring it to an end.