Community Coordination

If we are to succeed in disrupting human trafficking globally, then we need to do so through strong collaboration with organisations, both across borders and from within local communities.      

Community Coordination

In partnership with local councils and law enforcement in the UK, STOP THE TRAFFIK’s community coordinators work with multi-agency teams to build resilience to human trafficking from within communities. 

We believe that in order to stop human trafficking, the environment must become high risk for the trafficker. This will happen when communities on every level will be more aware of trafficking and better equipped to make informed choices. Our community coordinators are supporting individuals as well local business, law enforcement and NGOs to be able to spot the signs of human trafficking – making them more aware of their risks and the influence they have. The system is only as strong as its weakest link and because of this, STOP THE TRAFFIK will continue to make all aspects of the community resilient to trafficking. 

Community: Colchester

This community project is based in the Safer Colchester Partnership Hub at Colchester Police Station. The aim is to empower vulnerable people and the wider community in Essex to identify, resist and safely disrupt trafficking. By raising awareness within the community we hope to increase victim identification and therefore improve victim protection. 

How do we achieve this?

• Created training materials, posters and leaflets – these materials were aimed at both staff in front line or high risk sectors and victims. 
• Deliver awareness training sessions – NGOs, housing associations, high risk sectors (taxi drivers) and statutory front line workers in Colchester, including safeguarding leads, Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) champions, Children and Adult social care, and Health service teams.
• Create an NGO forum with local agencies and groups – develop an area in which local, trusted organisations can correspond and determine the best referral pathway to support potential victims. It is hoped that this will promote joint working with statutory agencies.
• Establish connections and support for minority groups – Work with minority groups is essential for supporting vulnerable victims and gathering intelligence. 
• Organise conferences and local monitoring visits – These improve local business’ awareness whilst also monitoring activities to ensure compliance.