5 ways you can help end modern slavery

Find out how you can stand in solidarity with survivors this Anti-Slavery Day (18 October) and beyond.

Each year, Salvationists and members of the public are invited to join the fight against modern slavery. Here are 5 ways you can get involved:

1. Learn to spot the signs of modern slavery
2. Volunteer your time
3. Donate and fundraise to support our vital work
4. Get involved in the paperchain campaign
5. Pray for an end to modern slavery

Read on for more information.

1. Learn to spot the signs of modern slavery

You could come into contact with a victim of modern slavery without even realising it, but there can be some tell-tale signs to watch out for:

• Do they look uneasy, unkempt or malnourished?
• Do they have untreated injuries?
• Is someone else paying for their travel?
• Is someone else speaking for them?
• Are they picked up from work at unusual times?
• Are they unsure of their own address?

If you suspect someone may be a victim of modern slavery and needs help, phone the 24/7 confidential referral helpline on 0800 808 3733.

If there is an immediate danger to the suspected victim or if you think that the suspected victim is under 18, inform the police and call 999 as a matter of urgency. 

2. Volunteer your time

Join the Army’s team of volunteers who provide direct support to survivors of modern slavery.

Volunteering opportunities include:

• Driving survivors to safety
• Offering compassionate support to survivors as they tell their story to help them get the support they need
• Mentoring survivors as they rebuild their lives
• Sharing your skills to aid their recovery (eg drama, arts and crafts, employment skills, etc) 

3. Donate or fundraise to support our vital work

Money raised towards our work in the UK and Ireland Territory provides additional support to survivors of modern slavery and helps meet the immediate needs of survivors and eases their transition to independent living.

As an international church and charity, we also partner on projects around the world to support communities who are vulnerable to human trafficking.

4. Get involved in our paperchain campaign 

 Show your support for survivors by helping us raise awareness.

Download and cut out the paperchain to display in your front window, shopfront or notice board. Take a selfie with the paperchain in the background, post it on social media with the caption ‘it takes an Army to combat modern slavery’ and tag The Salvation Army in your post @salvationarmyuk. 

5. Pray for an end to modern slavery

As Christians, we're called to stand against injustice and care for those who are vulnerable. Prayer is a powerful step towards a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. 

Why not use our paper chain prayer activity as a simple, interactive way for people of all ages to pray for freedom, hope and justice?

Join us in this prayer: 

Loving God, 

Thank you that every person is precious to you. Bring freedom, safety and hope to those trapped in modern slavery. Give strength to those working for justice and help us play our part in ending modern slavery. Amen.