Medaille Trust has marked 20 years of supporting survivors of trafficking and modern slavery with a special celebration at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, reflecting on two decades of restoring safety, dignity, and hope to those affected by exploitation.
Founded in 2006 by Sr Ann Teresa SSJA with the support of Catholic Religious, Medaille Trust began by providing hospitality and a safe house for vulnerable women working in street prostitution in Southampton. Over the past two decades, it has grown into one of the largest Catholic charities fighting trafficking and modern slavery, supporting more than 700 people each year through intensive, survivor-focused services. These include ten safe houses, five community projects, a criminal justice programme that helps survivors engage with the justice system, and a prevention project in Albania.
The anniversary celebrations brought together staff, trustees, supporters, and partners for a Mass and reception at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral. The event also featured a display of artwork created by survivors, highlighting journeys of recovery, resilience, and empowerment.
The Mass was presided over by John Sherrington, Archbishop of Liverpool, who thanked Medaille Trust staff and volunteers for their dedication to supporting survivors and pursuing justice. He reflected on the importance of accompanying survivors on “the journey from victim to survivor” and on their path towards freedom and recovery.
Reflecting on the charity's achievements, Dani Wardman, CEO of Medaille Trust, said:
"Over the last 20 years, Medaille has helped thousands of survivors find safety, rebuild their lives and move towards lasting freedom. As we begin our next chapter, our ambition is to ensure every survivor has the opportunity to build a future of safety and dignity."
Today, Medaille Trust is one of the UK's leading providers of support services for survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking. Alongside safe accommodation and outreach services, the charity works to raise awareness across communities, prevent exploitation, and support survivors in seeking justice against those responsible for their abuse.
As Medaille Trust looks ahead, the organisation remains committed to its mission of helping survivors recover, rebuild their lives, and achieve lasting freedom from exploitation.
