Modern Slavery is a serious crime where people are exploited, abused and treated as a commodity. The term encompasses slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour and human trafficking, which have all been found to occur in Surrey and Elmbridge.

On 15 March Elmbridge Cabinet agreed its annual Modern Slavery, Human Trafficking and Safeguarding Statement. Elmbridge Borough Council recognises that it has a responsibility to take a robust approach to slavery and human trafficking, and the purpose of this statement is to demonstrate our commitment to understand all potential modern slavery risks related to the organisation and ensure that there is no slavery in our own business or through any supply chains. This can include paying less than the minimum wage, providing poor conditions or work practice, child labour and forced labour.

Over the next year, we will ensure that employees complete training on the subject, conduct an awareness-raising programme and work with our partners to improve community safety further. We work with a wide range of agencies to safeguard children, young people and adults at risk from abuse and neglect. This includes Surrey County Council and the Local Safeguarding Boards.

We are committed to preventing slavery and human trafficking in our corporate activities, and ensuring our  supply chains are free from slavery and human trafficking.

Cllr Bruce McDonald
Portfolio Holder for Policy and Transformation

• Watch the Cabinet meeting on 15 March.
• View the Cabinet agenda for 15 March.