First, do no harm

When you suspect modern slavery, what you do next matters enormously, and so does what you do not do. The guiding principle is simple: act in a way that cannot make things worse for the potential victim.

Never confront the suspected exploiter

Do not challenge, question, or even hint at your suspicions to the person you believe is doing the exploiting. Confrontation achieves nothing good. It tips them off, and the most likely results are that victims are punished, threatened, or moved overnight to another site or another city, out of reach of any help. Investigation is a job for the police and specialist agencies, not for colleagues or customers.

Be careful even with the potential victim

Approaching a potential victim directly can also put them at risk, especially if their controller is nearby or monitors their phone. Do not press someone to disclose, and never promise secrecy you cannot keep, or outcomes you cannot control. If a person chooses to confide in you, listen calmly, take what they say seriously, and let them keep as much control as possible over what happens next, within the limits of your duty to report and their safety.

Do not "rescue"

However strong the urge, do not attempt to remove someone from their situation yourself. You do not know what threats hang over them or their family, and a failed rescue can be catastrophic for them. The safe route to freedom runs through the proper authorities and support services.

What you should do

• Notice, and take your own unease seriously.
• Make a written note of what you observed, as factually as you can.
• Report through the proper channel, covered in the next lesson, promptly.
• If someone is in immediate danger, call 999. That overrides everything else.

Your job is to be a good witness and a reliable reporter, not an investigator or a rescuer.