AN exhibition to raise awareness of human trafficking is set to take place in Liverpool city centre this Thursday, October 18, to mark Anti-Slavery day.

The walk-through display - named "Journey to Freedom" - tells the stories of three people forced into modern day slavery.

Using bespoke audio, visual and sensory design the real-life stories of those forced into domestic servitude, sexual exploitation and enforced labour are vividly brought to life.

The exhibition has been organised by Lee House Centre for Mission Awareness in conjunction with the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit and Merseyside Police.

Officers are encouraging readers to attend between 10am and 4am, on Thursday, in Church Street.

Detective Superintendent John Webster from the force’s major crime unit said: “The exhibition is a great way to raise awareness of this global issue among the general public.

"Of the tens of thousands of people who are thought to be trafficked in and out of the country every year, only a small proportion of these cases are brought to the attention of the police and other agencies, something we are determined to change.

"Modern slavery is often hidden in plain sight and so opportunities such as this exhibition allow us to educate the public about how they can spot the signs and what they can do to help.

"Modern slavery takes many forms but some of the most common are sexual exploitation, forced labour and domestic servitude.

"Victims are forced to work in poor conditions and against their will in many different sectors including brothels, cannabis farms, nail bars, car washes, agriculture, construction and even in people’s homes.

"The force has officers who are specially trained to investigate these crimes with expertise and sensitivity. I would encourage anyone who is a victim or has information to find the courage to come forward and speak to us.”

Detective Superintendent Lisa Mahon of North West Regional Organised Crime Unit said: “Offenders involved in human trafficking prey on extremely vulnerable people, often people who have come from a foreign country, do not know the language and are desperate to provide for themselves and their families.

"They callously exploit that desperation for their own ends and we are determined to put a stop to that."

Anyone affected by these issues or who has any information can contact police by calling 101, @MerPolCC or @CrimestoppersUK.

Alternatively you can contact the Modern Slavery Helpline on 0800 121 700 or visit the website by clicking here.