The Salvation Army is pleased to announce the appointment of the Medaille Trust as a specialist partner to provide support to adult victims of modern slavery in England and Wales through the Government’s new Modern Slavery Victim Care Contract (MSVCC).
The new and extended contract goes live in Winter 2020/2021, following a period of transition from the current service. It enables The Salvation Army and the Medaille Trust to build on relationships and expertise developed since 2011 when the church and charity was first appointed to manage the wide-ranging support services needed to help survivors of slavery as they begin to recover and move on with their lives.
The organisations are now working together to be ready to transfer and extend the support existing survivors already receive to all stages of their recovery from the point of rescue and as they journey towards independent living.
Major Kathy Betteridge, Director of Anti Trafficking and Modern Slavery for The Salvation Army in the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland, said:
“We are pleased to welcome the Medaille Trust, who has played a key role in helping us to support thousands of victims of modern slavery as they rebuild their lives, bringing important expertise and a shared passion to change the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in our society
“We are looking forward to working together in the coming months and years as we introduce new services to meet the increasing numbers of people being referred to us for help.
“Together we will ensure that services are delivered to the highest standards, with the needs and voices of survivors at the centre of all we do.”
Medaille Trust exists to provide refuge and freedom from modern slavery. Today, they are the largest provider of supported safe house beds for victims of modern slavery in the UK. They combat human trafficking and modern slavery by: offering safe housing; providing support for victims; raising awareness in communities; partnering with law enforcement authorities.
Medaille Trust Chief Executive, Garry Smith said:
“Working in partnership on the Victim Care Contract with The Salvation Army for a number of years now has given The Medaille Trust an opportunity to develop and share best practice through regular networking events. Modern Slavery isn’t something that can be solved by one organisation, we are stronger together with each member of the partnership contributing towards the whole.”
One survivor of slavery supported by Medaille Trust said:
“Medaille opened their doors to me when I was most in need. The staff walked by my side and helped me to find my way. I took in every opportunity Medaille gave me. I did not sit down in the corner and feel sorry for myself anymore. With the help of the wonderful staff I spread my wings and today I fly high. I am free.”
The Salvation Army was first awarded the Government contract in 2011 to provide specialist support for adult victims of human trafficking and modern slavery in England and Wales, including safe accommodation, counselling, medical care, translation services and legal counselling. Victims seeking help have been trafficked to or within England and Wales and are referred to the service through a dedicated confidential referral line 0800 808 3733 available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information visit: www.salvationarmy.org.uk/modern-slavery
The Salvation Army is an international Christian church and registered charity which has been transforming lives for more than 150 years. Working in 131 countries worldwide, The Salvation Army offers friendship, practical help and support for people at all levels of need. In the UK and Republic of Ireland this work includes more than 750 community churches and social centres. Registered Charity Nos. 214779, 215174 and in Scotland SC009359, SC037691. For more information visit the website www.salvationarmy.org.uk
“Without the help of the Police and the staff at Medaille Trust life would have been very different for me. I could never thank you all enough.” (Medaille Trust client, 2020)]
