Modern Slavery (Victim Support) Bill [HL]

Key Points

• Creates statutory duties on government departments and local authorities to provide support to modern slavery victims.
• Establishes a right to access essential support services (safe accommodation, healthcare, mental health support, counselling, legal advice) with independent advocacy.
• Strengthens access to support through the National Referral Mechanism and related processes to ensure timely referral and ongoing help.
• Introduces monitoring, reporting and accountability measures to track how well victims are supported and identify gaps.
• Includes safeguards for victims during investigations or legal proceedings and ensures their voices are represented in policy development.

Progress

The bill is at the second reading stage in the Lords, the early part of its passage through Parliament. If it progresses, it will move to detailed scrutiny in committee, then further stages in both Houses.