This course provides participants with a thorough understanding of various aspects related to modern slavery and their specific responsibilities as outlined under the Modern Slavery Act 2015.
We define human trafficking, a critical component of modern slavery, exploring the methods and dynamics involved and how to effectively report instances of modern slavery.
To learn more about our courses, or to request a tailored quote for your organisation, please contact us today and a member of our team will be happy to help.
The National Crime Agency estimates tens of thousands of modern slavery victims in the UK, working in sectors that supply businesses of all sizes. Agriculture, food processing, construction, hospitality, and manufacturing are among the highest-risk areas, but no supply chain is automatically safe. Forced labour, human trafficking, and debt bondage often hide behind legitimate-looking arrangements, particularly where labour providers, sub-contractors, and temporary workers are involved. Recognising that the risk is real and close to home is the first step towards addressing it.
The Modern Slavery Act 2015 formally requires organisations with annual turnover of £36 million or more to publish slavery and human trafficking statements. However, smaller businesses are increasingly drawn into these obligations indirectly, because larger customers conducting their own due diligence will expect their suppliers to demonstrate similar standards. Treating modern slavery prevention as a serious commitment, regardless of whether you meet the legal threshold yourself, protects your access to ethical contracts and your wider commercial relationships.
Workers who appear malnourished or fearful, who cannot produce identification documents, who live in degraded conditions on or near work sites, or whose wages are paid to someone else, may be victims of exploitation. Falsified paperwork, contracts in languages workers don't understand, and unusual payment arrangements are also warning signs. Training your team, particularly procurement staff, site supervisors, and anyone interacting with suppliers or their workers, gives you the eyes and ears you need to spot problems early.
Modern slavery rarely appears at the top of a supply chain. It tends to hide further down, in the labour providers, sub-contractors, and temporary workforce that surround your direct suppliers. Mapping your full supply chain, including who provides labour at each stage, is essential for identifying where the real risks sit. Contractual clauses requiring suppliers to prevent modern slavery in their own operations, allow audit access, and report concerns immediately are practical tools that strengthen your position significantly.
If exploitation is identified in your supply chain, the response matters enormously. Stop using the supplier where exploitation is confirmed, report to the Modern Slavery Helpline (0800 0121 700) or police, and cooperate fully with any investigation. Prioritise victim welfare, recognising that traumatised workers may need specialist support before they can engage with formal processes. Where suppliers are willing to address problems, work with them on corrective actions; where they refuse, terminate the relationship. How you respond will define your credibility on this issue going forward.
Learn more about modern slavery prevention and protecting your supply chain by reading our blog article Modern Slavery Prevention: Protecting Your Supply Chain.
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