Don't suffer in silence, urges modern slavery survivor

A modern slavery survivor has urged other victims of exploitation "not to suffer in silence" as a conference was held to share best practice for tackling the crimes and learning how to spot the signs of abuse.

The event, held in Chorley, Lancashire, brought together about 90 representatives from public services, charities and businesses.

Modern slavery can involve people being threatened, controlled or deceived into work, criminal activity or sexual exploitation.

Saira pleaded with victims to speak out as there are "so many organisations who can help".

More than 25,000 potential victims were identified across the UK in the first six months of this year, the highest figure since records began, according to government figures.

Saira told BBC Radio Lancashire many people are "suffering in silence".

"I just want to tell them that if I can come out and speak, you can also come out and you can speak," she said.

"There are so many people in organisations who can help. Just don't suffer in silence."

The conference was organised by the Pan-Lancashire Anti-slavery Partnership, Lancashire Constabulary and the Lancashire Partnership Against Crime.

Opening the event, Lancashire's police and crime commissioner Clive Grunshaw said modern slavery and human trafficking "destroys lives" and often remain hidden from view.

Partnership working was vital to ensure the warning signs of exploitation were recognised and victims received support, he said.

Grunshaw said Lancashire was "leaving no stone unturned" to bring offenders to justice and victims to safety.

Sion Hall, chairman of the Pan-Lancashire Anti-Slavery Partnership, said modern slavery caused "deep harm" to individuals and communities and that recognising the signs could help protect vulnerable people and save lives.

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