Modern slavery on your doorstep
Modern slavery is a crime and a violation of fundamental human rights.
It takes various forms such as slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour, and human trafficking. We are committed to ensuring there is no modern slavery or human trafficking in our supply chains or in any part of our business. We act ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and undertake appropriate due diligence to identify and assess potential risk areas and mitigate the risk of slavery and human trafficking occurring. You can read more in the statement here: Slavery and human trafficking statement | Westward
When we think of “slavery,” we picture chains or distant history. But modern slavery is very much alive and it's closer than we realise, even in our beautiful regions of Devon and Cornwall.
Examples you might not expect in Devon & Cornwall:
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Hidden labour exploitation (the "Band Case")
In a recent shocking incident, members of the folk band The Old Time Sailors, known for playing at Glastonbury, were arrested near Tiverton in Devon after their minibus crash. Police found several people allegedly being kept in a farmhouse, working for little or no pay under exploitative conditions. The Sun . 2 May 2025 -
Van collision leads to rescue
A van crash in Tavistock on May 19, 2025, unexpectedly uncovered potential victims of exploitation among the occupants. A follow-up raid in nearby Gulworthy revealed more people in potentially exploitative circumstances, leading to multiple arrests under modern slavery laws. Devon & Cornwall Police News -
Youth trafficked into “County lines” drug network
Investigations have shown that vulnerable youths in Devon and Cornwall have been trafficked and used to carry and deal class A drugs. In 2021, two individuals who had abused their position of trust, were charged for facilitating this criminal exploitation under modern slavery and human trafficking laws. UK News in Pictures . -
Historic van stop reveals human trafficking
In a dramatic case, 29 Vietnamese men, women and children were discovered hidden in a van stopped near Cullompton, Devon. They were suspected of being trafficked and several men were charged with human trafficking and helping unlawful immigration. The Guardian .
These stories show how modern slavery often happens in places you'd least expect: music groups, farmhouses, vehicles on rural roads. Victims are often hidden in plain sight - migrant workers, young people or those under pressure from criminal networks.
Be alert to signs like:
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Overcrowded or secretive accommodations.
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Workers with no freedom of movement or communication.
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People clearly under someone else’s control or fearful.
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Young individuals involved in crime but clearly not by choice.
If something doesn’t feel right, you can report concerns to the National Modern Slavery Helpline: 0800 0121 700, or contact Devon & Cornwall Police on 101.