Source · Select Committees · Home Affairs Committee
Recommendation 68
68
Deferred
Paragraph: 206
First Responders overwhelmed by NRM challenges, lacking capacity, resources, and training.
Conclusion
A myriad of challenges within the National Referral Mechanism system are overwhelming First Responders’ already limited capacity to identify and support potential victims of human trafficking. However, the Home Office is not presently accepting applications for more First Responder Organisations, nor improving the resources which existing First Responders have in order to overcome capacity issues. Furthermore, statutory First Responders lack training on their legal responsibilities when encountering a potential victim of human trafficking.
Government Response Summary
The government response highlights the importance of supporting victims to engage with the criminal justice system via independent support workers, but it does not address the issues of First Responders' capacity, applications for new First Responder Organisations, or their training within the National Referral Mechanism.
Paragraph Reference:
206
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
68. The Government recognises the importance of supporting victims to engage with the criminal justice system and the positive impact an independent support worker can have on securing this engagement. Victims of modern slavery are understandably traumatised from their experiences and may not want to engage with the police. They may not recognise themselves as a victim or may fear the authorities or their exploiter. Yet obtaining victim testimony is often so critical in securing modern slavery prosecutions. All adult victims supported by the MSVCC have a support worker who will provide them advice and support to access legal aid, legal advice and legal representation, and assistance during criminal proceedings, including Special Measures available under the Victim’s Code should they wish to support the police in criminal investigations. Child victims supported by local authorities and Independent Child Trafficking Guardians receive similar support.