Purpose

Greater Manchester is one of the few areas in the country who provide immediate accommodation for potential victims of modern slavery at point of identification. This allows individuals to be placed into the place of safety where they can have their immediate needs met and be allowed the time to be empowered and decide what is the next best course of action for them.

It enables immediate hygiene and nutrition needs to be met, and provides a safe, warm and comfortable environment for what may be the first time in years. Clean clothes are provided, and each victim is able to leave with a bag of possessions, which again they may not have had for a number of years.

The funding covers the cost of providing utilities to the accommodation (GMP), as well as toiletries, clothes and food for all victims who use the accommodation for a 12-month period (Justice and Care).

In 2025/26, safe and immediate support through the place of safety was provided 14 times to victims of modern slavery and human trafficking.

Decision

£5,000 will be split and provided to GMP and Justice and Care to cover the costs of providing the Greater Manchester place of safety for victims of modern slavery from April 2026 to March 2027.

Justice & Care: Maximum £4,000 split at x2 payments of £2,000 each

The remainder of the funding amount remaining in the latter end of financial year 26/27 will go to GMP.