Journeys - our new resource!

Journeys seeks to explore some of the complexities surrounding modern slavery and makes clear there are no simple solutions. Modern slavery is a global crime with sophisticated criminal organisations at its heart. However, there is hope. As the resource suggests, when people move from being bystanders to taking action, we can build resilient communities where modern slavery is noticed and prevented from getting a foothold.

The five victim stories are profoundly compelling and show us the different ways in which modern slavery manifests itself in the UK. Hearing from volunteers and church leaders on the frontline who have all had different modern slavery journeys provides clear examples to follow.

Please watch the films, read the supporting material, and tell a friend – everyone has a part to play in making modern slavery a thing of the past.

Introduction by Bishop Alastair Redfern, Chair of The Clewer Initiative

Every modern slavery journey is different.

Some people are targeted in their bedrooms in suburbia, others on a busy street in Vietnam or an internet cafe in Albania. Many British victims are approached when they are already struggling with other vulnerabilities such as homelessness or school exclusion. Through coercion, deception and sometimes force, victims are taken from their homes and exploited against their will. Many people are trapped in slavery for years, not knowing who to turn to or trust. Others successfully escape their captors, only to be retargeted and exploited by another criminal gang. Even when someone finds freedom from exploitation, there is significant trauma which means their modern slavery journey never really ends.

Similarly, every volunteer and campaigner has a different story. For some, it is deeply personal. For others, it starts in a professional capacity and moves into the personal. It usually begins with the shocking realisation that slavery is not a thing of the past. Knowledge and awareness leads to action and mobilisation.

In our new resource, we try to tell these stories - the stories of victims and volunteers. And we reflect upon how we too can take the next step in our modern slavery journey.

How the resource works

Journeys is made up of five films and five chapters of supporting material. We would encourage you to watch a film per session and spend some time in discussion and reflection either with others or on your own. In each chapter, we have contemporary art to prompt further contemplation on the experience of victims. There are also case studies, background information and statistics to help deepen your knowledge of modern slavery. At the end of each film, there is a clear application point to help guide you in your response.

Caring for yourself

This resource is about a subject which is emotive and upsetting. Before you start, think about how you will care for yourself and others. If you are distressed by the subject matter or it has triggered painful memories, we would urge you to share your concerns with others who might understand.