As part of the Jubilee Year celebrations, Con McHugh, a parishioner of the Archdiocese of Birmingham, is producing a series of short video reflections exploring key themes of social and spiritual renewal. The series will cover important topics such as Care for Creation, Food Poverty, Modern Slavery, Managing Debt, Forgiveness, and Rest and Worship.
In the second video of the series, the focus turns to Modern Slavery, featuring Ben Ryan, Deputy CEO of Medaille Trust. Ben shares powerful insights into the prevalence of modern slavery and human trafficking in the UK and globally, and the central role Medaille Trust plays in providing refuge, rehabilitation, and long-term support for survivors.
“Jubilee has always symbolised liberation from bondage and captivity,” Ben explains. “That message is more urgent than ever as we work to rebuild the lives of those who have endured the horrors of trafficking and exploitation.”
It’s estimated that over 120,000 people in the UK are currently victims of modern slavery, with 50 million globally. These numbers are staggering—and growing. Yet behind every statistic is a human being in need of safety, healing, and dignity.
The Medaille Trust is one of the UK’s leading charities supporting survivors of modern slavery. Through safe houses, community support projects, and public awareness campaigns, including the impactful Look Up campaign run in partnership with the Archdiocese of Birmingham, the organization is helping transform lives and raise national awareness.
This Jubilee Year, Medaille Trust is calling on communities to:
Pray for victims and survivors of modern slavery
Learn the signs of exploitation and trafficking
Act if you see signs in your parish, school, or neighbourhood
Support our mission through volunteering, fundraising, and advocacy
The work of rebuilding lives after slavery is ongoing—and it needs more hands and hearts. We are seeking volunteers, staff, champions, and supporters to join us in the fight against modern slavery. Together, we can help people find not just freedom, but a future.
