Overview

The Modern Slavery (Victim Support) Bill aims to improve support for victims of modern slavery in the UK. It strengthens existing legislation by providing clearer guidelines on support provision, extending the duration of support, and improving data collection and reporting.

Description

Support for Adult Victims

The bill amends the Modern Slavery Act 2015 to guarantee assistance and support for adult victims of modern slavery. This support includes accommodation, financial aid, medical and psychological treatment, and legal advice, and will be provided until a final determination on their victim status is made or for a minimum of 12 months after the initial assessment.

Leave to Remain

The bill introduces provisions for granting leave to remain in the UK to adult victims of modern slavery who receive support under the amended Act, based on their individual circumstances and needs, including safety concerns or ongoing legal proceedings.

Data Reporting

The bill mandates the Secretary of State to produce an annual report to Parliament detailing the number of modern slavery notifications, victims' nationalities and immigration statuses, support provided, and leave to remain granted.

Support for Child Victims

The bill amends the Children Act 1989 to ensure that local authorities consider the risk of re-trafficking when supporting child victims of modern slavery and include an independent child trafficking advocate in their support planning.

Government Spending

The bill will likely increase government spending due to the extended support period and wider range of support offered to victims. Precise figures are not provided in the bill itself, but it is expected to increase costs relating to accommodation, healthcare, legal aid, and support workers.

Groups Affected

• Adult victims of modern slavery: Will receive improved and extended support, including potentially leave to remain in the UK.
• Child victims of modern slavery: Will benefit from strengthened protection against re-trafficking and improved support systems.
• Government agencies: Will face increased responsibilities in providing support and reporting data.
• Support organizations: May see an increased demand for their services.
• UK taxpayers: Will likely bear the cost of the increased support provision.

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