Anti‑Slavery Week 2026
29 Sep 2026
Understand, recognise, report
When you hear “slavery”, you might think of the past. But modern slavery is happening today; in homes, workplaces, supply chains and communities across the UK. It can look like forced labour, criminal exploitation, domestic servitude or coercion hidden behind everyday jobs, services and transactions. Often, the signs are subtle, and the people affected may be unable to leave because of threats, deception or control.
Anti‑Slavery Week (13–18 October) is a chance for colleagues to learn how to spot possible signs of modern slavery, understand where risks can appear, and know how to report concerns safely.
Modern Slavery and our responsibility at The University of Manchester
Join our panel discussion led by Julian Skyrme (Executive Director of Social Responsibility and Civic Engagement), reflecting on the legacy of slavery, and the responsibility of organisations like ours to identify and tackle exploitation in the systems and supply chains we use.
- When: Wednesday 14 October, 12-1pm
- Where: Simon Building, room 2.61
- No sign up required – please just turn up on the day
Other ways to get involved
- Complete or refresh our modern slavery e‑learning module
- Use the correct reporting routes if you notice a concern
- Visit the Hope for Justice pop‑up on Wednesday 14 October, in the Student Unions foyer between 9.30 - 11.30am, and 1.30 - 3.30pm.
What can you do?
Our university is committed to raising awareness, strengthening prevention and ensuring colleagues know how to recognise and report concerns. This involves all of us to spot warning signs of modern slavery, which could include:
- Very long working hours or unsafe working conditions
- No employment contract or payslips
- Wages controlled by someone else
- Overcrowded or poor-quality accommodation
- Individuals appearing fearful of another person
- Workers being transported to and from work by others
- Recruitment fees or debts linked to employment
- Lack of access to identification documents or passports
Find out more, and access our most recent Modern Slavery Statement, at our Staffnet site.