Trafficking and Exploitation Strategy Review

Overview

The Trafficking and Exploitation Strategy is at the heart of Scotland’s collective efforts to tackle this crime. 

Trafficking can involve victims being sexually exploited or forced into the role of a servant, or trapped in forced labour. Nail bars, car washes and construction are amongst the industries where potential cases in Scotland have been reported.

Figures from the National Crime Agency show there were 228 potential victims of trafficking identified in Scotland in 2018.

The Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Act 2015 was created in 2015 and the statutory Trafficking and Exploitation Strategy was published in 2017.

The Strategy aims to improve how we identify and support victims, deal with the causes of trafficking and exploitation, and punish perpetrators.

The online public survey is open to everyone to have their say on the future direction of the Strategy.

Why your views matter

We are seeking views as part of the Scottish Government's review of the Trafficking and Exploitation Strategy.

The Stakeholder Forum held in Edinburgh on Anti-Slavery Day on 18 October 2019 marked the beginning of an in-depth review of what the Strategy has achieved and how it may need to change so that it stays relevant in the coming years.

What happens next

We will publish the results of the review, alongside a revised Strategy if needed, by the end of May 2019.