It’s a picture of a woman cleaning a large bay window. But while it may be a common sight, Avon and Somerset Police posted the photo to illustrate that there may be something more sinister at play: domestic slavery.
“This could be an indicator of domestic servitude. Many victims won’t know they’re being exploited and need you to be a voice for them,” said the police.
Domestic servitude is just one form of modern slavery, and potential indicators include victims being dropped off and collected by one vehicle, isolation, poor living conditions, and other signs of abuse.
The Irish Sun shared signs of modern slavery identified by Unseen UK:
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Signs of physical or psychological abuse, appearing malnourished, unkempt, anxious, perhaps with untreated injuries
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Isolation, rarely allowed to travel alone and appearing to be under the control of others
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Poor living conditions, for example, being kept in dirty, cramped or overcrowded accommodation and/or living and working at the same address
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Having no ID documents, few personal possessions and always wearing the same clothes everyday
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Unusual travel times such as being dropped or collected very early or very late at night
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Those caught up in modern slavery may be reluctant to seek help, avoid eye contact and appear frightened. They may also be reluctant to speak to strangers and fear law enforcers
If you believe someone is being trafficked you should call 999 straight away or report suspicions of trafficking by calling 101 or visiting your local police station.
You can also dial the Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700, which can provide help, support, advice or report suspicions of trafficking.
Avon and Somerset cops added that they’ve seen an increase in the number of reports of modern slavery in the past two years.
“It’s likely this increase is due to increased media interest in modern slavery at car washes and nail bars,” they said.
“We rely heavily on the public to be our eyes and ears, to be in the places we can’t always be in.”
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