A conference to raise awareness of human trafficking was attended by over 130 professionals from across Dorset.

The conference was organised by specialist housing and social care support provider BCHA and the Purple Teardrop Campaign to address the need to raise awareness of human trafficking within the county and beyond.

Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Martyn Underhill, emphasised the need for awareness of this crime to be raised in Dorset. He said: “Human trafficking is a modern day form of slavery. It is also a crime. It happens in all cities, most towns and many rural areas, here in Dorset and across the country. It debases individuals, tears communities apart and fuels violence and organised crime.

“Trafficked persons can be men and women, adults or children. Child sex exploitation is just one element of human trafficking. Prostitution and the slavery of adults exists in Dorset too. I have raised this with both the Home Secretary and the Policing Minister. Historically, trafficking is difficult to detect as it operates covertly. However, we need to work harder at identifying victims, by building better links with the government and local authorities. We all have a responsibility of care.”

The conference heard from speakers from organisations throughout the UK who are leading the fight against human trafficking, including Barnardos, Unseen UK, BCHA, Migrant Help and The Medaille Trust.