Barnstaple woman launches modern slavery campaign after being inspired by real life survivors
A charity worker from Devon has setup a brand new modern slavery campaign, after witnessing first-hand the difficulties which survivors can face over the winter months. Emily Lloyd began supporting survivors of modern slavery three years ago, and after hearing their stories and experiences, was inspired to create the Stand With Survivors This Winter campaign.
This winter it is estimated that over 100,000 people in the UK will be trapped in modern slavery and exploitation. Recent reports have found that in the past year, the South West and West Midlands accounted for 12% of all referrals for modern slavery support in England and Wales, through the government’s National Referral Mechanism.
Emily Lloyd, 27, was born and brought up in Barnstaple, where she attended The Park Community School, followed by Petroc College. She now works at the national modern slavery charity Causeway, and it was whilst getting to know the survivors she was supporting that she felt impelled to do something to raise their voices and help fundraise for the vital services which Causeway run.
Emily is particularly keen for her Stand With Survivors This Winter campaign to shine a spotlight on how winter can be particularly challenging for survivors of modern slavery.
She currently runs Causeway’s LifeLink service, which provides courses, workshops, community groups and social activities for survivors. She sees an increased need for this service in the winter, with survivors often separated from family and at high risk of isolation and loneliness.
Emily said: “I am really passionate about increasing support for survivors of modern slavery, and I’m really proud of the work which Causeway do. LifeLink is the Causeway service which I run, and it is so valuable for survivors as it offers a much needed connection to others in their community who they can relate to.
It is vital to have a safe space for those coming out of exploitation to be able to socialise, access education and get to know their local area in order to rebuild their confidence for everyday life.
It’s so incredible to see someone go from being shy and withdrawn when I first begin working with them, to opening up and telling stories of their life and exuding so much confidence that they didn’t have before.
LifeLink, and Causeway’s services generally, are especially important over winter, as we all know that loneliness and isolation increases at this time. As a lot of people we work with wouldn’t necessarily be able to afford to sit in a café every day, we can offer a free supportive space that allows people the chance to get out of the house and connect with others, as often they are apart from loved ones.
Donations from the public are essential to continue delivering this vital work, and so any amount you can donate will be gratefully received and will make a huge difference for survivors of modern slavery this winter, and as we go into the new year.”
Find out more about Emily’s Stand With Survivors This Winter campaign by visiting www.wearecauseway.org.uk and donate £5 by texting SURVIVOR to 70970
