A charity worker has received celebrity endorsement for his awareness campaign to tackle the misconceptions of modern slavery.
Leading the celebrity-line up is Coronation Street actress, Julie Hesmondhalgh, TV chef, Andrea Oliver, and Olympic boxer, Cindy Ngamba.
Causeway’s Stand with Survivors campaign was launched by Edwin Buckley, to educate the public and redefine the common misunderstandings of illegal exploitation.
He said: “It’s to raise awareness in a general sense but to really try and shine a light on the reality of modern slavery in the UK today.
“It’s commonly misunderstood and we are trying to grow that allyship and care.”
Recent reports revealed that from June 2023 and July 2024, Yorkshire and the North East ranked fifth in the demand for modern slavery support, making up 8% of all referrals.
“Those voices can really help get messages across, build advocacy and reach people who might not ordinarily be able to speak to.”
– EDWIN BUCKLEY
The charity has produced a film to support the campaign with all 17 celebrities who have endorsed their work.
Causeway, has worked with over 70 celebrities in the past 18 months, and used their platforms to support their ongoing campaigns.
The charity was founded in Sheffield in 2005 and provides long and short term support to recovering victims of exploitation.
Modern Slavery explained
Despite public perception that women are most likely to fall victim to modern slavery, it is men who are the most vulnerable group to be victims of criminal and labour exploitation.
As revealed in The Salvation Army Modern Slavery Report 2024 men are manipulated into committing illegal acts or coerced into allowing their homes as bases for gang activity.
The Standing With Survivors campaign hopes to bring an end to the common belief that modern slavery only affects people from other countries, as British nationals are the second-largest demographic among victims.
Mr Buckley, 34, added: “British young men are now one of the most at risk groups of modern slavery because of criminal exploitation.”
The campaign draws attention to cases of the increase of labour exploitation in care homes.
Established care providers sponsor visas then house and feed foreign workers who become trapped in forced labour for little or no pay.
Through education and advocacy, Mr Buckley and Causeway aim to break down stereotypes and educate the public on the harsh realities of modern slavery in the UK today.
