One of the final stages in recovery is being able to find safe, paid employment. There are multiple barriers for survivors ranging from gaps in employment history, lack of references, fears about employment, no history of unexploited labour, lack of relevant experience or education. However, being able to maintain your own job and income is a significant part of re-gaining agency and control.

The Co-op are committed to tackling modern slavery in their supply chains but are going one step further.

“Bright Future is providing a pathway to paid employment for victims of modern slavery. In 2017 our goal is to offer 30 people who’ve been rescued from conditions of slavery in the UK, the opportunity of paid work experience and, if suitable, a guaranteed job.”

– read the full ‘Bright Future’ statement here.

Two survivors have already been through the bright future programme with one going through to employment. We are excited to build on this partnership as we begin to create a readiness for work programme to help prepare survivors to start their placements.

“We need more companies to respond to modern slavery like the Co-op. This pioneering approach to victim support will provide long-term care, boost opportunities for the future and, most importantly of all, prevent the risk of re-trafficking”

– Kevin Hyland, Anti-Slavery Commissioner

If you think your organisation could provide safe work placements for survivors in other industries such as hair and beauty, catering, cleaning etc, we would love to hear from you. Email us or call us on 07881 997983.