Overview

This bill strengthens laws against human trafficking in the UK, expands support for victims, and improves prevention efforts. It broadens the definition of trafficking offences, increases penalties for perpetrators, and mandates comprehensive assistance for victims, including legal representation and compensation.

Description

The bill significantly updates the legal framework surrounding human trafficking. Key aspects include:

Offences

The bill expands the definition of human trafficking offences, clarifying that victim consent is irrelevant if obtained through coercion, abduction, fraud, deception, abuse of power, or if the victim is a child. It also establishes new aggravating factors for sentencing, such as the involvement of public officials or criminal organizations, and the infliction of serious harm on the victim. The bill extends jurisdiction to trafficking offences committed outside the UK.

Assistance and Support

The bill mandates the provision of comprehensive assistance and support to victims, including safe accommodation, material assistance (covering needs arising from pregnancy, health issues, or violence), medical and psychological treatment, counselling, legal aid, and help with compensation claims. Children are given special attention, with a focus on safeguarding their long-term welfare. A legal advocate will be appointed for a child victim if parental responsibility is compromised.

Witness Protection

The bill amends existing legislation to include human trafficking as grounds for special measures for witnesses in court, providing greater protection for victims who testify.

Prevention and Monitoring

The bill requires the government to annually publish a strategy for raising awareness and reducing human trafficking and to establish a national body to monitor the bill's effectiveness and report to Parliament.

Government Spending

The bill will likely lead to increased government spending on various areas: enhanced training for law enforcement and prosecution personnel; increased resources for investigation and prosecution of human trafficking cases; funding for victim support services; establishment of a national monitoring body. Precise figures are not available in the provided bill text.

Groups Affected

• Victims of human trafficking: Will benefit from enhanced legal protections, increased support services, and improved access to justice and compensation.
• Law enforcement and prosecution agencies: Will need to adapt their practices and training to reflect the bill's changes.
• Government agencies: Will bear responsibility for implementing the new provisions and funding related services.
• Perpetrators of human trafficking: Will face harsher penalties and a higher risk of prosecution.
• Children: Receive enhanced protections and support, with a specific emphasis on their long-term welfare.

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