Modern Slavery Act 2015 Transparency Statement 2025

Specified public authorities have a duty to notify the Home Office of any individual encountered in England and Wales who they believe is a suspected victim of slavery or human trafficking. The ‘duty to notify’ provision is set out in Section 52 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and applies to local authorities in England and Wales which includes Colchester City Council.

Guidance on the duty to notify is provided at: Modern slavery: how to identify and support victims - GOV.UK

The Care Act 2014 includes modern slavery as a form of abuse and imposes statutory safeguarding duties on local authorities to protect vulnerable adults who are, or may be, victims of modern slavery. If a local authority has reasonable cause to suspect an adult with care and support needs is a victim and unable to safeguard themselves, Section 42 duties under the Act are triggered. This requires a safeguarding response, including investigations, to ensure the adult receives necessary protection from abuse and exploitation. Employees of the council are expected to follow internal safeguarding procedures and speak to a Designated Safeguarding Officer or First Call Officer for support in reporting Modern Slavery as a First Responder Organisation.

Members of the Public can also report Modern Slavery via the following channels.

For concerns about children contact The Essex County Council Children and Families Hub

Telephone: 0345 603 7627

Report a concern about a child - public | Essex County Council

For concerns about adults contact Essex County Council Adult Social Care

Telephone: 0345 603 7630

Report a concern about an adult | Essex County Council

The Emergency Duty Team for Children and Adults is available on 0345 606 1212.

Alternatively, contact the Modern Slavery Helpline 08000 121 700 or report it online.

If an individual is perceived to be at immediate risk of significant harm call ‘999’.