A PROGRAMME of events to mark to raise awareness of modern slavery will take place on Friday.

In partnership with Merseyside Police and the International Slavery Museum, crime commissioner Jane Kennedy will help to provide a programme of events to mark the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade on Friday, March 29.

Local businesses and partner agencies are being invited to take part and learn how to spot the signs and report concerns of modern slavery.

Commissioner Kennedy told the Globe: “Slavery was abolished more than 180 years ago in this country.

"As we remember the victims of the Transatlantic Slave Trade we acknowledge there are organised, criminal gangs who are exploiting people in the most inhumane ways, and it is taking place in our communities.

"I welcome the opportunity to help our partners and business' spot the signs of slavery and know how to report their suspicions, ensuring that exploitation has no place on Merseyside.

"It is estimated that there are 13,000 victims and survivors of modern slavery in the UK and there are some tell-tale signs to make it easy to identify.

"That's why we are working with our partners today, to help identify these signs and signpost people to the right organisations who can help put an end to modern slavery.

"I encourage local businesses, statutory and third sector organisations to join us."

The International Slavery Museum highlights the international importance of enslavement and slavery, both in a historic and modern context and by working in partnership with other organisations with a focus on freedom and enslavement, the Museum offers opportunities for greater awareness and understanding of the legacies of slavery today.

Head of the International Slavery Museum Richard Benjamin said: “The UN designated International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade on 25 March each year offers the opportunity to remember those who suffered as a result of chattel slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

"It is also an opportunity to highlight the legacies of transatlantic slavery such as racism and discrimination and indeed shine a light on modern forms of slavery and enslavement.

"The Museum is committed to working with partners to eradicate ongoing injustices and so we are pleased to host this event.”

The International Slavery Museum will host two events:

  • From 10 am 30 business partners will learn about modern slavery, a tour of the museum will be offered to all attendees at noon with a networking lunch
  • From 1.30pm the afternoon session for statutory and third sector organisations

For more information and booking contact norma.kielty-crummey@merseysidepcc.info or call 0151 777 5162.