More than 150 modern slavery victims have been rescued by Cambridgeshire Police in the space of the year.

From July 2023 to June 2024, 165 people were rescued by the force - an 11 per cent increase from July 2022 to June 2023.

Monday, October 14, marks the beginning of Anti-Slavery Week and Cambridgeshire Police are keen to raise awareness about the crime.

Modern slavery can take many forms, but sectors that the force have identified as "particularly susceptible" include hand car washes, nail bars, takeaways and the care sector. 

Slavery can also take the form of sexual exploitation and county lines drug dealing.

Some of the warning signs that someone may be a modern slavery victim include - looking tired, unkempt, avoiding eye contact, working excessive hours, appearing fearful of management and not having protective equipment for the task they are competing.

The release of the statistics comes one month after the force reported on a modern slavery case where a couple stole at least £200,000 from six vulnerable men working at McDonald's.

The Cambridgeshire Victim and Witness Hub provides tailored support, with one particular specialism being services for migrants affected by slavery, trafficking and exploitation.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Darryl Preston said: "Criminals who target vulnerable people in need of work and somewhere to stay will be caught and brought to justice in Cambridgeshire.

"It is my role to ensure the victims are offered tailored support which we do through our countywide Victim and Witness Hub.

"You can play a role in identifying victims – if you suspect anyone may be at risk, please report your concerns to the police."

Anyone, including victims, who would prefer not to contact police can speak to the Modern Slavery Helpline.

The helpline is run by the charity Unseen and can be contacted online or by calling 08000 121 700.