Keeping People Safe: Recognising Modern Slavery, PREVENT and Hate Crime

Keeping people safe is everyone’s responsibility. By recognising signs of harm, exploitation, or abuse early, we can help protect vulnerable people and support safer communities.

Modern Slavery, PREVENT, and Hate Crime are serious issues that can affect people from all backgrounds. While these topics can be difficult to discuss, awareness is an important part of safeguarding and knowing how to respond appropriately can make a real difference.

Modern Slavery

Modern slavery can include forced labour, exploitation, domestic servitude, and human trafficking. People affected may feel trapped, controlled, threatened, or unable to seek help.

Signs to look out for:

Someone appearing frightened, withdrawn, or anxious
Signs that a person is being controlled by someone else
Poor living conditions or signs of neglect
Unexplained injuries
Working excessive hours for little or no pay
Limited access to money, identification, or personal belongings

What to do:

If you are concerned someone may be at risk, report it safely. If someone is in immediate danger, contact emergency services by calling 999.

You can also contact the Modern Slavery and Exploitation Helpline on 08000 121 700 for advice and support.

What not to do:

Do not confront suspected individuals directly
Do not investigate concerns yourself
Do not put yourself or others at risk
Do not ignore signs that something may be wrong

PREVENT

PREVENT is part of the UK’s safeguarding approach aimed at protecting people from being drawn into terrorism or extremist activity.

Radicalisation can happen online or in person and may affect people of any age, background, or circumstance.

Signs to look out for:

Sudden changes in behaviour or beliefs
Expressing support for violence or extremist ideas
Withdrawal from friends, family, or usual activities
Accessing or sharing harmful extremist content online
Increased secrecy around online activity or social groups

What to do:

If you are worried someone may be vulnerable to radicalisation, speak to an appropriate safeguarding professional, community organisation, or contact local police for guidance.

Early support and open conversations can help prevent harm and provide people with the support they need.

What not to do:

Do not aggressively challenge someone’s views
Do not ignore concerns because you are unsure
Do not attempt to manage serious concerns alone

Hate Crime

A hate crime is any criminal offence motivated by hostility or prejudice towards someone because of disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, transgender identity, or other protected characteristics.

Everyone has the right to feel safe, respected, and included in their community.

Signs to look out for:

Verbal abuse, threats, or intimidation
Bullying or harassment
Damage to property
Offensive online messages or behaviour
Someone becoming distressed, withdrawn, or fearful after interactions with others

What to do:

Take concerns seriously and support the person affected. If safe to do so, encourage reporting through the police, local authorities, or victim support organisations.

In Scotland, hate crimes can be reported to Police Scotland by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency.

What not to do:

Do not dismiss incidents as “just banter”
Do not minimise someone’s experience
Do not stay silent if you witness abuse or discrimination

Speaking Up Matters

If something does not feel right, trust your instincts and seek advice. Raising concerns early can help prevent harm and ensure people receive the support and protection they need.

Useful organisations and guidance: