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Safeguarding at HBTC: Raising Awareness of Human Trafficking

Safeguarding at HBTC: Raising Awareness of Human Trafficking

 

In Support of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on the 30th July 2025

At HBTC, safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do, and this year, as we marked World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on the 30th July, we stand in solidarity with the global effort to combat human trafficking and protect those at risk of exploitation.

What is Human Trafficking?

Human trafficking is a serious crime and a gross violation of human rights. It involves the transportation, movement, or holding of people for exploitation through force, fraud, deceit, or coercion. Victims may be forced into:

  • Sexual exploitation
  • Forced labour or criminal activity
  • Domestic enslavement
  • Organ removal

Trafficking is not just something that happens elsewhere; it can and does happen here in the UK, in our communities, and even in everyday workplaces.

Why is Human Trafficking a Safeguarding Concern?

At HBTC, safeguarding means ensuring all learners, staff, and members of our community are protected from abuse, harm, or exploitation. Trafficking represents the most extreme violation of these protections, targeting people who are vulnerable, often isolated, and lacking support.

Trafficked individuals may be:

  • Afraid to speak out or ask for help
  • Accompanied by controlling individuals
  • Suffering physical or emotional trauma
  • Living or working in exploitative conditions

As a training and apprenticeship provider, HBTC is in a key position to recognise the signs, offer support, and speak up for those who cannot.

organised crime, end the exploitation

The theme of the 2025 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is “Human Trafficking is Organised Crime – End the Exploitation”, which highlights the role that criminal networks play in modern-day slavery. Traffickers and their networks often:

  • Use digital platforms to recruit and control victims
  • Exploit global supply chains for profit
  • Target vulnerable individuals across borders and communities

According to the United Nations, between 2020 and 2023, more than 200,000 trafficking cases were identified worldwide. Yet this figure likely represents only a small fraction of the true scale. Many victims remain unseen, often silenced by fear, language barriers, or a lack of confidence in authorities.

Photo of someone Raising Awareness of Human Trafficking, in relation to Safeguarding at HBTC.

Recognising The Signs

It’s not always obvious when someone is being trafficked. But there are red flags to look for:

  • Appearing withdrawn, anxious, or fearful
  • Inconsistent stories about where they live or work
  • Being unable to speak freely or separated from their documents
  • Working in poor conditions for little or no pay
  • Being accompanied or “watched” by another person

These signs could indicate exploitation. It’s always best to raise a concern than overlook a potential victim.

What you can do

Everyone at HBTC, whether staff, employers, or students, plays a role in safeguarding our community:

  1. Be Aware: Educate yourself about the realities of trafficking and how organised crime networks operate.
  2. Be Alert: Know the signs of trafficking and don’t be afraid to report concerns. If you’re unsure, speak to the HBTC Safeguarding Team.
  3. Be Compassionate: Victims need a trauma-informed, respectful approach. Many have experienced physical violence, mental trauma, isolation, and even fear for their families.
  4. Report!
  5. At HBTC, all safeguarding concerns should be raised immediately with one of our Designated Safeguarding Leads, Chris or Amy, on 01482 211714. For more information, click here:

In urgent cases, contact:

  • Modern Slavery Helpline: 08000 121 700
  • NSPCC Child Trafficking Advice Centre: 0808 800 5000
  • Crimestoppers (to report anonymously): 0800 555 111
  • Metropolitan Police: Call 101 or visit their website here:

If an emergency: Always call 999.

If you have a speech or hearing impairment: Use the text service on 18001 101 or 999 if you have registered with the emergencySMS service.

A safeguarding reminder from hbtc

Protecting others from trafficking starts with a strong safeguarding culture, one built on awareness, trust, and action from all of us.

By staying informed, staying alert, and taking action when needed, we protect the vulnerable and uphold our shared values of dignity, safety, and respect.

Together, we can uncover the hidden dangers of trafficking and build a future where exploitation is no longer tolerated. For further support or information, please visit:

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Emily Simpson

Emily is our Digital Marketing/Learner Engagement Apprentice and is involved with all things social media and content development. She is also responsible for attending career events and maintaining relationships with local schools and colleges.

✉️ Email Emily