Why ATMS?

Human trafficking is a huge violation of human rights and a mass global issue that affects millions of people every year, both in the UK and worldwide.

Centuries after slavery was officially abolished, thousands of people are still being exploited and sold as slaves across the UK. They can be forced to work in the sex trade, used as domestic slaves, exploited for labour or criminal activity, or have their organs removed to be sold.

The Salvation Army's Anti-Trafficking & Modern Slavery (ATMS) Unit is dedicated to fighting this by providing crucial support to Survivors.

The Salvation Army offers safe housing, help with accessing legal assistance, medical care, emotional support and they play a vital role in allowing Survivors rebuild their lives and regain their independence.

I began working in The Salvation's Army's Anti-Trafficking & Modern Slavery Unit in April 2024 and have had the privilege of witnessing the profound impact of their work first-hand. From offering private counselling services to providing a safe space for survivors to live and recover, the work the Salvation Army is doing is life-changing for these individuals.

The Salvation Army's ATMS Unit has been working in partnership with the Home Office to combat Modern Slavery since 2011 and, therefore, we are the first port of call for newly identified potential victims. Under this Government Contract (Modern Slavery Victim Care Contract), The Salvation Army are provided with support for their work, however, funds are continually stretched.

The Stats

The Most Recent Government Stats, 10 May 2024 (UK):

- 4,524 potential victims of modern slavery were referred to the Home Office from January to March 2024

- 73% (3,291) of potential victims were male and 27% (1,226) were female

- The most common nationalities referred were British (24%; 1,105), Albanian (17%; 791) and Vietnamese (11%; 493)

2023 Government Statistics (UK)

- 17,004 potential victims of modern slavery were referred to the Home Office in 2023

- 76% (12,903) of potential victims were male and 24% (4,088) were female

- the most common nationality referred this year was UK (25%; 4,299), the second most commonly referred nationality was Albanian (24%; 4,052) and third was Vietnamese (6%; 991)

- The number of referrals for child potential victims (44%; 7,432) were at their highest on record. The number for adult potential victims was 51%; 8,622

Donations

Your donations will directly support the essential services provided by The Salvation Army's Anti-Trafficking Unit. Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a significant difference.

Below is just some of the support the The Salvation Army offers & funds:

- Confidential legal advice

- Healthcare

- Counselling

- Interpretation

- Travel expenses to appointments

- Maternity Grants

- Clothing

- Housing

- Weekly Financial Support

- Educational opportunities

- Assistance in obtaining employment and housing

I need your help to reach my goal of £1,999 for this incredible cause that I am so lucky to play a small part in (£1,999 is the minimum sponsorship target).

Please consider donating – every penny counts and will be used to support survivors and prevent further trafficking. If you're unable to donate, you can still help by sharing my page with your friends, family and social networks to spread the word.

Thank you so much for your support and generosity. Together, we can make a real difference and bring hope and freedom to those affected by human trafficking.

Leah