To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on her role in implementing the Modern Slavery Strategy, including with specific reference to the provision of culturally competent trauma services for migrant trafficking victims in Northern Ireland.

ANSWER

The Department of Justice has lead responsibility for the implementation of the Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Strategy 2024-2027, which was published on 10 July 2024. Alongside key delivery partners across statutory bodies and civil society, the Department is responsible for a number of commitments within the Strategy. This includes a commitment to ensure appropriate support mechanisms are in place for all people referred as potential victims of modern slavery and human trafficking. The Department coordinates the implementation of the Strategy and delivery of strategic objectives via the Organised Crime Task Force Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Sub-group.

Support for victims/ potential victims of slavery and trafficking in Northern Ireland is supplied on the basis of individual need via the Department’s contracted victim support providers, Migrant Help and Belfast and Lisburn Women’s Aid. Both Migrant Help and Belfast and Lisburn Women’s Aid have developed significant expertise in working with vulnerable migrant victims of exploitation in a culturally competent manner. Both organisations have training opportunities available to all staff in areas including: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion; Unconscious Bias; and, Religious and Ethical Inclusion. Support providers link victims/ potential victims with various groups and support agencies including faith groups and LGBTQIA+ support organisations.