Human trafficking and modern slavery

In October 2015, the Scottish Parliament passed the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Act 2015. 

This was the culmination of significant work across the political spectrum. It was between key agencies.

Human trafficking is about the illegal trade of human beings for exploitation. It also encompasses slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour.

A trafficking victim does not have to cross international boundaries. Trafficking can take place within Scotland, in our towns and cities.

SPA / Police Scotland subscribe to the Scottish Government's Trafficking and Exploitation Strategy.

We are committed to making sure individuals are deployed in the right place and at the right time. We want to make sure they have the right skills to provide and support a responsive, efficient and effective service. We want to keep people safe within our communities.

SPA / Police Scotland will together with the Scottish Government partners in the public, private and third sectors in the UK and Internationally.

They'll work with those who have an interest in this issue and understand the threat and issues associated with human trafficking and exploitation. This will be through our People and Development activities.

We will offer appropriate guidance to staff who are likely to encounter victims in the course of their work. In doing so we will strive to contribute to a greater understanding of the impact of human trafficking and modern slavery on Scottish society.