Victims of Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery

Human trafficking and modern slavery are grave violations of human rights that involve the exploitation of vulnerable individuals for financial or personal gain. Victims may be subjected to forced labour, sexual exploitation, domestic servitude, or criminal exploitation. Many are deceived, coerced, or abused, often in circumstances where they feel unable to seek help.

In the United Kingdom, the legal framework is principally provided by the Modern Slavery Act 2015, supplemented by international obligations under the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings and the European Convention on Human Rights. These laws impose duties upon public authorities to identify and protect victims, to investigate allegations of trafficking, and to prosecute perpetrators.

Victims who are identified or who self-refer are entitled to support under the National Referral Mechanism (NRM). The NRM provides access to safe accommodation, medical treatment, counselling, legal advice, and subsistence support during the period in which the Home Office makes a decision on whether there are “reasonable grounds” and, subsequently, “conclusive grounds” to recognise the person as a victim.

Recognition as a victim of trafficking or modern slavery may also have important immigration consequences. Victims may be granted discretionary leave to remain in the UK if this is necessary for their recovery, to pursue compensation, or to assist criminal investigations. Where removal would place the individual at risk of re-trafficking or other serious harm, further protection may be available under asylum and human rights law.

Victims may also bring civil claims for compensation against traffickers or exploiters and may be entitled to damages from the state if there has been a failure to protect them. Compensation may cover loss of earnings, pain and suffering, and aggravated damages for the degrading treatment experienced.

At Lexmark Legal, we are committed to protecting the rights of victims of human trafficking and modern slavery. We provide expert legal advice on the NRM process, immigration protection, applications for discretionary leave, and claims for compensation. Our solicitors act with sensitivity, discretion, and determination to safeguard vulnerable clients and to secure justice on their behalf.

Our solicitors have extensive experience in defending the victims. Contact us today to arrange a consultation with one of our immigration specialists. Call us on 0208 090 2488 or submit our online enquiry form.