Domestic Slavery

Domestic Slavery refers to the practice of exploiting and exercising undue control over another to coerce them into performing services of a domestic nature in unacceptable conditions.

Victims of Domestic Slavery typically live and work within their employers’ household, performing tasks that could include cooking, cleaning and child-care. They may work 10 to 16 hours a day and are often on call outside of that time for little or no pay, in poor conditions and with no, or limited, freedom.

In many cultures, it is considered the norm to have a ‘house help’ and, unlike trafficking for sexual exploitation for example, forced labour can be unrecognised and accepted. The practice is often linked to child fostering and the promise of a ‘better life in the UK’. However, while for some this can be a positive reality, for many their employment is set up with no regard to UK law or basic human rights.

If you’re concerned that someone you know may be in Domestic Slavery, you can call The Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700 which provides one central point to access help, advice and information.

Have you heard?
Spot the signs