Anti-Slavery Commissioner to push for more survivors to benefit from independent advocacy

We are delighted that the new Strategic Plan issued by the UK’s Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner, Eleanor Lyons, contains such a strong endorsement of independent advocacy and its importance for survivors.

The Commissioner’s strategy calls independents advocacy “vital” and explains: “It would be of great benefit to improving survivor outcomes, especially long-term outcomes, to formally introduce and recognise Independent Modern Slavery Advocates (IMSAs) who are person-led and trauma-informed to improve the safety, resilience, and empowerment of each survivor. They can provide individual, tailored support to match victims’ unique needs, prevent victims from having to tell their account to professionals multiple times, and act as a single point of contact in navigating many complex systems. They can also work alongside other professionals working with victims. Individuals with lived experience have spoken to the [Commissioner] about how much of a difference this makes.”

The Commissioner pledges to work with the Government and the anti-trafficking sector to push for victims of modern slavery to have independent advocates in their recovery journey to help them navigate complex systems. Hope for Justice strongly supports this pledge and thinks it could be transformational.