May 2019
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Delegates discussed key findings and recommendations of the Independent review of the Modern Slavery Act which considered the current legislation in place for tackling modern slavery and human trafficking, and how it can be further strengthened and future-proofed.
Discussion also reflected issues being raised in the Home Affairs Committee’s inquiry into preventing modern slavery, which examined progress made in reducing human trafficking and modern slavery since the introduction of the Modern Slavery Act and what more remains to be done.
With the Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner appointed, delegates looked at the operation and function of the role and how best to ensure its operational independence in the sector, and improve co-operation with other government agencies and stakeholders.
Attendees assessed the proposals including setting out mandatory areas for annual reporting, and seeking to ensure that good working practices are embedded in organisations for the long term - and to address concerns that businesses can sometimes regard the statements simply as tick-box exercises.
They also considered the policy options for enforcing reporting transparency, from initial warnings to director disqualification, along with discussion of the practicalities of enforcement as well as the funding, independence and effectiveness of the prospective regulator.
Delegates discussed government plans for reform to the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) aimed at creating a new unit in the Home Office that deals with all NRM cases, improving intensive support and specialist care for victims, and strengthening the role of the first responders - as well as concerns that the reforms have yet to be implemented.
Delegates also looked at how to further develop anti-slavery partnerships between agencies and stakeholders in the sector, and how challenges such as accountability, co-ordination and leadership can be effectively tackled.
Further sessions considered the legal application of the Act and looked at what more can be done to support victims of modern slavery, with discussion on options such as increasing the minimum number of days that victims receive support and specifying a minimum standard of care required, including housing, legal and psychological assistance.
