Modern Slavery
A programme to raise awareness around modern slavery
Human trafficking and modern slavery are among the gravest violations of human dignity
Today, more than 122,000 men, women, and children are trapped in modern slavery across the UK. These are not just statistics. They represent real people whose lives have been deeply impacted by exploitation and abuse.
Tackling modern slavery is everyone’s business.
Modern slavery often hides in plain sight. Ending it requires a united response from local communities and specialist agencies—a true “whole-systems” approach. Because churches sit at the heart of our communities, they are uniquely placed to support people living on the margins who are most vulnerable to exploitation. By educating Mothers’ Union members, equipping local churches, and praying for survivors, we can spot the signs earlier, protect the vulnerable, and help survivors heal.
Our FREE campaign
Alongside our partners at The Clewer Initiative, Mothers’ Union are proud to stand at the forefront of the movement to end this injustice. Through our FREE campaign, we share vital knowledge and resources to actively disrupt modern slavery nationwide.
FREE stands for Find, Respond, Empower, End.
Developed hand-in-hand with our members, many already active in this area, this campaign mobilises the Mothers’ Union network across Britain and Ireland – empowering our branches, groups, churches, and local communities to recognise the signs, take action, and protect the vulnerable.
Key aims
Raise Awareness: Educate members to understand that modern slavery happens closer to home than many realise.
Deliver Training: Provide online training so members can recognise and report modern slavery with confidence.
Equip Members: Roll out a ‘Train the Trainer’ ambassador program to help members build and maintain vital skills.
Inspire Action: Provide clear, achievable ways for individuals and communities to respond, including dedicated prayers and faith resources.
Maintain Flexibility: Adapt our resources to meet local contexts. Work with partners to amplify our messages and collaborate where relevant.
Inclusivity: Convene targeted regional meetings to discuss how we can best achieve these aims together, adapting to local circumstances when required.
Anti-Slavery Day
Anti-Slavery Day is held annually on 18 October to raise awareness of modern slavery and human trafficking. It is an opportune time to begin rolling out our FREE campaign resources to our members. More information will be available shortly.
