Survivor / Victim Services
In the West Midlands, victims of modern slavery have access to a range of additional support services designed to aid their recovery and reintegration into society. Collaborative efforts between governmental agencies, non-profit organisations, and community groups ensure that survivors receive comprehensive support tailored to their individual circumstances. By providing a robust network of services, West Midlands Anti Slavery Network demonstrates its unwavering commitment to empowering survivors and facilitating their journey towards healing and independence.
The services available to survivors in the West Midlands can be found below.
This service list does not include what is available for victims/survivors of modern slavery who are receiving support under the Modern Slavery Victim Care Contract within the NRM (please click here for further information).
Housing
The following services can assist with housing of victims/survivors of modern slavery.
WMASN SafePlace and IMSA services
West Midlands Anti Slavery Network offers emergency accommodation through the SafePlace service, specifically tailored for adult male victims of modern slavery in the pre-National Referral Mechanism (NRM) phase. This service addresses the lack of support for male victims in this stage, where they often navigate a complex system without ongoing, trauma-informed assistance. Referrals for adult females can be accepted on a case by case basis. SafePlace provides a secure environment for victims/survivors to recover and reflect after exploitation. It is designed for individuals in the pre-NRM phase or those uncertain about NRM referral, excluding those already in the NRM. The accommodation is short-term, facilitating the transition to longer-term housing solutions.
For information on the SafePlace service please click here
Sifa Fireside
SIFA Fireside supports single adults and childless couples aged 25 or over facing homelessness, assisting with access to emergency housing, public funds and conducting triage to meet basic needs like meals, showers, and clothing. They offer essential services such as a postal address, document storage, and access to healthcare professionals like nurses, opticians, and mental health support. Additionally, they provide internet access, food parcels, and a welcoming environment for individuals in need.
Operating Monday to Friday, they offer emergency and rough sleeper support in the mornings and appointments throughout the day. Workshops and skills development sessions are available in the afternoons, except Wednesdays. Contact them at 0121 766 1700 during reception hours or seek emergency accommodation support from Birmingham City Council Housing Service.
St Basils
St Basils Birmingham provides emergency accommodation and support services for young people (aged 16 to 25) facing homelessness in the Birmingham area. They offer safe and secure temporary housing, along with access to essential amenities and support staff who can assist with a range of needs, including welfare support, life skills development, and access to education or employment opportunities.
To contact St Basils Birmingham for emergency accommodation support, individuals can reach out to them directly at 0300 303 0099, email youthline@stbasils.org.uk, or text ‘NEED ST BASILS’ to 62277. If access to a phone is limited, individuals can visit the Youth Hub at the St Basils Centre on Heath Mill Lane, Birmingham, B9 4AX. The Youth Hub is open on Wednesdays from 1pm to 5pm and Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 9am to 5pm.
Spring Housing
Spring Housing’s Outreach Support for Male Survivors of Modern Slavery aims to ensure survivors feel safer and more resilient, reducing their risk of future victimisation. Services include sourcing safe, affordable accommodation, assistance with tenancy agreements and legal rights, and support in applying for welfare benefits. They also offer guidance on budgeting for utilities, addressing issues such as anti-social behaviour, and accessing health and social care services. Additionally, they provide signposting for economic independence through training, education, and employment opportunities.
For more information, please contact our team at 0121 663 1443 or email mdsreferrals@springhousing.org.uk.
Other services
Adavu
Adavu provides comprehensive emotional and practical casework support to survivors of modern slavery residing in the West Midlands, particularly those with low to medium support needs and a positive Conclusive Grounds (CG) decision, or individuals appealing a negative CG decision. They also offer assistance to pre-National Referral Mechanism (NRM) clients seeking entry into the NRM process. Adavu’s referral criteria encompass survivors who are either pre-NRM and wish to enter the NRM or post-NRM with medium support needs, readiness to engage, and a commitment to addressing longer-term goals. Adavu’s services are available to both men and women, as well as individuals and families.
For more information or referrals, please email info@adavu.org.uk.
Black Country Women’s Aid
BCWA’s Modern Slavery Support service provides refuge and outreach to victims of modern slavery and international human trafficking. BCWA supports survivors who have been referred through the National Referral Mechanism (NRM), which is the British Government’s response to Modern Slavery. BCWA serves as the regional sub-contractor of the Salvation Army, administering the national NRM support service.
For more information click here
Medaille Trust
The Moving On Project provides comprehensive support to adult female survivors of modern slavery, exploitation, and trafficking at various stages of their journey. As first responders, they can assist individuals at the pre-National Referral Mechanism (NRM) stage and facilitate referrals into the NRM process. Survivors in the NRM process can attend group sessions offered by the project, and support continues regardless of the outcome of the decision. Additionally, the project welcomes those unsure about entering the NRM at the moment. Services include casework, befriending, physical and mental wellbeing support, education, employment, volunteering, community activities, independent living assistance, and access to justice. Covering the West Midlands region, women can self-refer or be referred by professionals.
For more information click here
Sophie Hayes Foundation
The Sophie Hayes Foundation empowers female survivors of trafficking in the West Midlands, London, and the South, aiding their transition into employability through tailored support services. By offering group workshops, one-on-one coaching, and vocational placements, they provide survivors with essential skills and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Referral criteria include being a female survivor of modern slavery, being an adult, having medium verbal and written English comprehension, no self-referrals, ensuring survivors are ready to embark on their journey towards a brighter future.
Further Information can be found by clicking here
Victim Support
Victim services offer vital support to individuals who have experienced trauma, crime, or abuse, providing a safe space and compassionate guidance to aid in their recovery journey. These services may include emotional support, crisis intervention, counselling, and advocacy to help survivors navigate the legal and healthcare systems. Additionally, victim services often offer practical assistance such as securing safe housing, accessing medical care, and obtaining financial support. By empowering survivors and addressing their immediate needs, victim services play a crucial role in promoting healing, resilience, and justice for those affected by crime or trauma.
If you’ve been affected by crime in the West Midlands, call your local Victim Support team at 0300 303 1977. Lines are open 8am-8pm Monday to Friday, and 9am-5pm on Saturday. For support outside of their hours, contact Victim Support’s free Support line at 08 08 16 89 111.
British Red Cross
Immediate help and ongoing support are available to survivors through a range of Red Cross services. Within the Your Space Programme, specialist staff partner with individuals who have recently left exploitative situations. Accessing this support does not require involvement with authorities or consent to enter the National Referral Mechanism (NRM). The primary objective is to aid individuals in comprehending their available options, empowering them to make informed decisions about their future steps.
Specialist anti-trafficking officers are stationed across the UK, offering support to trafficked individuals and providing guidance to frontline workers. Refugees or asylum seekers who have been trafficked may receive assistance and advice from Red Cross refugee support teams, enabling them to make informed decisions about their next steps and access further help. Given that trafficked individuals are frequently separated from their families, and may struggle to locate them, Red Cross offers assistance in locating their loved ones and facilitating reunification if eligible.
Further information is available by clicking here
Salvation Army
Specialist support to protect and care for all adult survivors of modern slavery in England and Wales is provided by The Salvation Army through a government contract initially awarded in 2011. The latest Modern Slavery Victim Care contract, effective as of January 2021, ensures that survivors of modern slavery receive support at every stage of their recovery process. They have a confidential referral helpline, 0800 808 3733, and is available 24/7.
For further information click here
Children support
Barnardo’s ICTGS (Independent Child Trafficking Guardianship Service)
Independent Child Trafficking Advocates (ICTAs) offer advocacy and support to child victims of modern slavery, trafficking, and exploitation. Funded by the Home Office under section 48 of the Modern Slavery Act, ICTAs provide various forms of assistance, including immigration support, guidance through the criminal justice system, advocacy in important meetings and decisions, access to legal representation, and support for accessing education. Referral criteria include being open to both girls and boys, with services exclusively for children and individuals. For further information, please click here