Welsh Government
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Minister announces Wales’ first post to tackle human trafficking
Social Justice and Local Government Minister Carl Sargeant will today announce the creation of Wales’ first anti human trafficking co-ordinator
‘The Right to be Safe’ strategy, launched in March this year outlined the Welsh Assembly Government’s commitment to supporting victims of human trafficking.
Worryingly, human trafficking is now the third most lucrative market in the UK for organised criminals, after drugs and firearms. As the trafficking of women and children in Wales is a largely hidden problem the scale of the crime remains somewhat unknown; however recent police intelligence indicates that it is on the increase.
A report prepared by a Cross Party Working Group on human trafficking, led by Joyce Watson AM identified a need for an anti human trafficking co-ordinator for Wales. Their role would be to bring together public agencies who have a part to play in stamping out this crime and supporting victims.
The holder of the new post will raise awareness of the problem with local people in order to uncover the hidden problem and bring more traffickers to justice. The coordinator will also organise practical training for professionals on how to identify and intervene in cases of human trafficking.
Carl Sargeant said:
“Trafficking of women and children into the sex trade and forced labour is abhorrent, but largely remains a hidden crime. Authorities often do not recognise the scale of the problem and victims do not know where they can get help.
“I have clearly spelt out my commitment to tackling all forms of violence against women. This is why I am funding this post which will raise awareness of the problem of human trafficking, bring more perpetrators to justice and improve the response that victims receive.”
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