https://static1.squarespace.co...The National Network Co-ordinators’ Forum (which brings together the coordinators of the various regional and UK-wide anti-slavery networks and partnerships including The Clewer Initiative) has written to all the potential Police and Crime Commissioner and Mayoral candidates to urge them to make tackling modern slavery a priority if elected. So far, 20 candidates have signed up to the pledge.
The general population will head to the polls on Thurs 2nd May to elect 10 metro mayors and 39 Police and Crime Commissioners (PCC). The metro mayors control upwards of £25bn of public spending and the PCCs make sure that the local police in their area are meeting the needs of the community.
Caroline Virgo, director of The Clewer Initiative, comments: “This is an important moment in the life of our country, particularly against a backdrop of a cost-of-living crisis and public sector spending cuts. Sadly, as the number of vulnerable people in our society increases, the investment in modern slavery prevention, first responders, modern slavery intelligence and survivor care is decreasing. There are many competing voices and modern slavery could easily be overlooked at a time when it needs more attention than ever.”
