Edwin Buckley from Sheffield has started a campaign against modern slavery, after hearing too many accounts of it through his charity work.
The campaign, ‘Stand with Survivors’, aims at increasing awareness around modern slavey by educating the public about the signs to look out for. It has already been backed by seventeen celebrities from across the UK’s film, TV, music and sports industries, which Mr Buckley says has helped with its reach:
“I am so grateful to all of the celebrities who have thrown their support behind the campaign. It is such a powerful way for me to reach more people, raise awareness, and advocate against modern slavery.”
Included in the celebrity lineup is BAFTA nominee Julie Hesmondhalgh, Fantastic Beasts’ Derek Riddell, former Emmerdale actor Charlie Hardwich, and many more.
In a film produced to launch the campaign, Great British Menu host Andi Oliver explained:
“Modern slavery does not always mean somebody is being physically deprived of their freedom, although this does happen.”
Jacob Dudman, known for ‘The Last Kingdom’, added: “Campaigns like this are vital in our collective stride towards a world free from modern slavery and exploitation.
“Please do support the Causeway, and most importantly, the survivors which they work with. It really does make a huge difference.”
It’s estimated that over 100,000 people in the UK are currently trapped in modern slavery exploitation- with reports finding that, over the last year, Yorkshire and the Northeast were the fifth highest region when it came to reports of the crime.
Causeway is a modern slavery and crime reduction charity based out of Sheffield, tackling the issue and its many forms – including human trafficking, forced labour, sexual exploitation, and more.
If you think someone is showing signs of being a victim of modern slavery, please visit the Causeway website here, or call the UK Modern Slavery helpline on 08000 0121 700.
