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Legislation 26 www.thefis.org The National Referral Mechanism (NRM) is the Government’s framework for identifying and referring potential victims of modern slavery and in 2020 they identified 10,613 potential victims of modern slavery in the UK, with the actual number likely to be significantly higher. What to look out for The UK construction industry is almost at the top of the list (second only to the sex industry) as being most at risk of slavery. Worryingly, of all the sectors within construction, fit-out is fourth highest discipline to be most affected by modern slavery. In the UK, forced labour is primarily an organised crime for profit. Both the criminals and the victims operate on the margins society and are often hidden in plain sight. Victims are the most vulnerable members of society, and includes migrant workers and anyone uncertain of their immigration status. These physical signs seen in workers are red flags and should not be ignored: 1. malnourished; 2. neglected/scruffy; 3. dirty/poor hygiene; 4. tired/exhausted; 5. drugged/drunk; 6. wearing the same/incorrect clothing; and 7. showing signs of injury that could have been caused by assault. Psychological red flags include: 1. frightened/withdrawn; 2. anxious/stressed; 3. angry/agitated; 4. traumatised and confused; and 5. inability to express themselves. They will be reluctant to ask for help and may: 1. avoid eye contact; 2. be afraid of talking to strangers or the police; and 3. reject help when offered. Because they are subject to isolation, they will: 1. be unable to speak English or communicate effectively; 2. allow others to speak for them; 3. constantly look over their shoulder; 4. seek consent from someone else in the workplace; and 5. have limited/no social interaction with work colleagues. Because of how they live, they will: 1. be transported to and from site in ‘unusual’ types of vehicles (not a minibus); 2. have no ID; 3. have no personal items; and 4. little or no food. What you can do 1. look for groups of workers living at the same address; 2. look for workers with the same bank account details or with one digit difference; 3. look for workers with the same mobile phone numbers; and 4. look for workers giving the same next of kin details. Download the free toolkit from the Stronger Together website at www.stronger2gether.org/resources and train and encourage all workers to be vigilant and report any concerns. Read the FIS guidance on the right to work at www.thefis.org/right-to-work-checks Members can watch a recording of the webinar at www.thefis.org/webinar-recordings/right-to-work-and-modern-slavery/